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The liver is the largest organ in the body, weighing between 1.5 and 2 kg. It is situated in the upper right side of the abdomen where it is tucked under the ribs. Hepatitis is an infection or inflammation of the liver. While it is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, parasites, alcohol, drugs, toxins, or transfusion of incompatible blood can also hepatitis.
There are different types of hepatitis, but the SYMPTOMS for each remain primarily the same. They include: - abdominal pain
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
- intermittent nausea
- vomiting
- fever and
- yellowing of the eyes and skin
HEPATITIS A, often called infectious hepatitis or acute infective hepatitis, is usually the mildest form. It is due to a virus that gets into the bowel and then into the liver. It is spread from person to person by direct contact and through contaminated food, towels, eating utensils and the like. There may be a mild flu-like illness with loss of appetite and nausea followed by the appearance of jaundice - a yellow discolouration of the skin and whites of the eyes. The urine may be very dark in colour. A full recovery can be expected. - Hepatitis A vaccine provides long-term protection. Children 2 years and older and adults who are at risk for getting Hepatitis A can receive a series of two vaccinations as recommended by their doctor. This should be considered by people who may come into close contact with those with the infection and by travellers to parts of the world where hygiene standards are poor.
HEPATITIS B is a more serious illness. It is common in many parts of the world and spreads very easily. It can be caught through direct contact with any of the body fluids of an infected person. Sexual intercourse and needle sharing with a carrier are 2 obviously risky activities but other seemingly harmless things such as sharing a razor or toothbrush can also spread the infection. Many people with hepatitis B show no obvious signs of the illness. Most will recover, but in some (5 to 10 per cent) the virus will persist in their bodies and they become permanent 'carriers' of the infection and can spread the disease for the rest of their lives.
- Vaccination against hepatitis B requires 3 injections, given over 6 months. Health authorities are now recommending this vaccination for all young people. Especially at risk are hospital workers and those who play contact sports.
HEPATITIS C is becoming more common and represents a major problem for the future. In some ways it is similar to hepatitis B, but is thought to be harder to catch. Often there are no symptoms. A larger proportion of those with this form become carriers. It is very common among intravenous drug users. Some people have acquired the infection from blood transfusions given before the virus was known about. At present there is no vaccine to prevent this form of hepatitis.
The liver has many major functions that include cleaning the blood, breaking down fats, and storing nutrients. Severe hepatitis can lead to chronic liver dysfunction. Check with your doctor if you have any symptoms of hepatitis or need to be vaccinated against hepatitis.
Article #5408
Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved.
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