An overview for patients - causes and treatment options
Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver that can have various causes. It is triggered by viruses, toxic substances, autoimmune reactions or alcohol consumption. Understanding the different types of hepatitis is crucial to ensure proper treatment and prevention.
Cause: Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus and often spreads through contaminated water or food.
Symptoms: Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain and fever.
Treatment: In most cases, hepatitis A heals on its own. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and adequate hydration.
Cause: The hepatitis B virus is transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids, often through unprotected sex or sharing syringes.
Symptoms: Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, joint pain, nausea and abdominal pain.
Treatment: Antiviral drugs can help suppress the replication of the virus. Hepatitis B vaccination is an effective preventive measure.
Cause: Hepatitis C is transmitted by the hepatitis C virus, mainly through direct contact with infected blood.
Symptoms: Many people show no symptoms. Others may experience jaundice, fatigue, nausea and abdominal pain.
Treatment: Antiviral drugs can be used to treat and cure the hepatitis C infection. There is no vaccination for hepatitis C as there is for hepatitis A and hepatitis B that protects against infection. A new infection is therefore possible even after healing.
Cause: Hepatitis D often occurs at the same time as a hepatitis B infection, as it requires the hepatitis delta virus to multiply.
Symptoms: similar to hepatitis B, symptoms can include jaundice, fatigue and abdominal pain.
Treatment: There is no specific antiviral treatment for hepatitis D. It is controlled by treating the concomitant hepatitis B infection.
Cause: Hepatitis E is transmitted by the hepatitis E virus and is often associated with contaminated water.
Symptoms: similar to hepatitis A, symptoms can include jaundice, fatigue, nausea and abdominal pain.
Treatment: In most cases, hepatitis E heals itself. In severe cases, however, medical treatment may be necessary.
Alcoholic hepatitis
Cause: Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic hepatitis.
Symptoms: These can include jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea and fever.
Treatment: The most important step is to stop drinking alcohol.
Autoimmune hepatitis
Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it is an autoimmune reaction in which the immune system attacks the liver.
Symptoms: Symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain and joint pain.
Treatment: Immunosuppressive drugs may be used to suppress the immune response and reduce inflammation.