In general, hepatitis is known to be the inflammation of the liver. But we commonly hear different kinds of hepatitis such as hepatitis A, B, C, D, E and so on. These diseases are all considered as viral hepatitis and the letters denote the kind of virus that caused the disease. For example, hepatitis A is the inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis A virus or HAV. This is one of the most common types of hepatitis but it is the least severe, especially if treated immediately, since it is not a long-term disease unlike the others. In some cases, patients do not feel any symptoms. But usually, viral hepatitis would cause headache, mild fever, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and muscle aches in the early stages. One can also experience dark or foamy urine, paleness, yellowing of skin and eyes, and abdominal pain later on. Hepatitis may be caused by several factors and some of these are as follows.
- Since the virus is present on the stool of an affected person, contaminated food or drinks can pass on the disease to another. This can happen when there is poor sanitation or inadequate washing of hands. The virus can spread easily when one swallows or drinks the infected food or drink.
- If you are fond of eating raw seafood, you are also more prone to get hepatitis. Seafood that has been collected from contaminated water can possibly carry the virus.
- In some cases, blood transfusion can also pass on hepatitis virus. This is why certain precautions are followed by hospitals before allowing a person to donate blood.
- People living in developing countries or areas with poor personal hygiene or sanitation are at greater risk of getting infected by hepatitis virus.
- Engaging into sexual activity with someone who is infected is also a way to transmit the disease.
- Using illegal drugs, whether it is injected or not, may also be a reason for getting infected of the hepatitis virus.
- Professional workers that deal with food preparation, health care, and management of water waste are more at risk of obtaining the virus compared to others.
- Getting tattoos or piercing imposes a greater chance of acquiring the disease especially if the needles used are not properly sanitized.
- Living in packed quarters like prisons, dormitories, and working in daycare centers can possibly cause infection if proper hygiene is not implemented.