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Hepatitis
means inflammation of liver, we commonly call it jaundice.
This can be
caused by multiple viruses and one of them is B type.
This B virus
gets transmitted when you come in contact with contaminated blood or body fluids.
Passing of
disease from infected Mother to the new born is also common.
Avoid exposure
to any unsafe blood or body fluids like sharing razors, reusing needles and
unsafe sex.
Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination
also.
In many
people, hepatitis B infection could become chronic, persisting for more than
six months. Chronic hepatitis B increases the risk of developing liver failure,
cancer, or cirrhosis, a disease that permanently damages the liver. Even when
the signs and symptoms of hepatitis B are severe, some patients recover fully.
Hepatitis b is more likely to become chronic in
children and infants. This liver disease can be prevented with a hepatitis B
vaccination, but there is no cure. If you are infected, adapting to a healthy
lifestyle and taking precautions can help prevent the virus from spreading to
others.
Types of Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis
A is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water and can cause
mild to severe symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and
jaundice. Hepatitis A vaccination is available for prevention.
HepatitisB
Hepatitis
B is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. It can
lead to acute or chronic infection, increasing the risk of liver cirrhosis,
liver cancer, and other complications. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended
for prevention.
Some people infected with hepatitis B have no symptoms.
Some people have symptoms of acute hepatitis B 2 to 5 months after they’re
infected with the virus. The symptoms include:
·
Yellowish eyes and skin (jaundice).
·
Loss of appetite.
·
Vomiting.
·
Abdominal pain.
·
Joint pain.
·
Gray coloured stools.
·
Fever.
·
Nausea.
·
Fatigue and
·
Dark yellow urine.
If you experience the symptoms mentioned above, it is
better you consult your doctor.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis
C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles
or receiving blood transfusions from infected donors. Chronic hepatitis C
infection can lead to liver damage over time and may require antiviral
treatment.
How is Hepatitis B transmitted?
Hepatitis B is a blood-borne virus transmitted
through infected blood and other body fluids. You can contract the virus
through:
·
vaginal, anal or oral sex
without a condom
·
sharing needles, syringes or
other injecting equipment including teaspoons
·
tattooing or body piercing with
unclean equipment
·
sharing toothbrushes, razors, or
nail files
·
an accident with a needle or
splashing of infected blood
To avoid getting hepatitis B as an adult, talk to
your doctor about getting vaccinated. Vaccination is the best way to avoid
contracting the virus.
Hepatitis B Complications
Chronic
hepatitis B may lead to complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure and
liver cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment of chronic hepatitis B may lower
your chances of developing these complications.
1.
Cirrhosis
(Scarring of the liver) is a condition in which the liver deteriorates slowly
and unable to perform it normal functions. Scar tissue replaces healthy tissues
and partially blocks blood flow through the liver. In the early stages of
cirrhosis, the liver continues to function. As cirrhosis get worse the liver
continues to fail.
2.
Liver
Cancer: Suffering from chronic hepatitis B increases your chances of developing
liver cancer. Discovering cancer at an early stage improves the chances of
curing the cancer. Your medical doctor may suggest an ultrasound to check for
liver cancer.
3.
Liver
Failure: It is also known as end stage liver disease, liver failure progress
over months, years or even decades. With end-stage liver disease, the liver no
longer perform it vital functions or replaced damaged cells.
4.
Liver
Transplant: When the liver has been severely damaged, a liver transplant may be
the only treatment option. Liver transplant are increasingly successful.
However, there are not enough organs donor available for every patient who
needs a transplant and not all patients are suitable candidates.
5.
Other
Conditions: People with chronic hepatitis B may, develop kidney disease or
inflammation of blood vessels.
Foods to Eat by Hepatitis B Patients
You
can protect your liver by paying attention to what you eat and drink. You need a
healthy liver to convert food into energy. To avoid liver damage eats foods
that are liver friendly. You should include in your diet:
1.
Fresh
fruits and vegetables of different colours.
2.
Lean
protein such as egg white, beans, fish, goat and skinless chicken.
3.
Low fat or
non fat diary products.
4.
Healthy
fat like those in coconut oil, olive oil and nuts in moderation.
5.
Whole
grains such as brown rice, barely, millet and quinoa.
Drink
plenty of water to make you function at best. Your food portion should contain
high fibre carbohydrate, vegetables, lean protein and fruits.
Treatment Options
Hepatitis Treatment
Treatment
for hepatitis varies depending on the type and severity of the infection.
Antiviral medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the risk
of complications.
Herpes Treatment
Antiviral
medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can help manage
herpes symptoms, reduce the frequency of outbreaks, and lower the risk of
transmitting the virus to others.
Myth:
Hepatitis and
Herpes Are the Same
While
hepatitis and herpes share similar names, they are distinct viral infections
with different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding these
differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Myth: Hepatitis and Herpes Are Always Symptomatic
Both
hepatitis and herpes infections can be asymptomatic, meaning individuals may
not experience noticeable symptoms. However, asymptomatic individuals can still
transmit the viruses to others, underscoring the importance of preventive
measures.
Conclusion
In
conclusion, hepatitis and herpes are distinct viral infections with unique
characteristics and implications for health. While they may share similar
names, understanding the differences between these viruses is essential for
effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. By staying informed and taking
proactive measures, individuals can protect themselves and others from the
potential consequences of hepatitis and herpes infections.