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There are mainly two types of viral hepatitis namely infective (spread by contaminated food and water- Hepatitis A and E) and blood borne (spread by contact with contaminated blood and body fluids - Hepatitis B and C
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Hepatitis E
It is also transmitted through contaminated food and water. It is similar to Hepatitis A but it can be more severe and is more likely to cause complications especially in pregnant ladies. A vaccine is also being developed for its prevention. Again prevention is the key for Hepatitis E. Patients who face above mentioned symptoms should immediately consult a doctor and take necessary steps as advised to treat and also to recognise early those patients who may land up in complications.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is caused by a virus which slowly affects the liver and in many patients may be just present in the liver harmlessly, the so-called carrier state. Hence it is important to identify those patients who have a liver injury and to treat them. Hepatitis B liver injury if untreated can progress to liver cirrhosis (liver scarring and permanent liver damage ), liver failure and also liver cancer. Medications are easily available for the treatment of Hepatitis B and it can be well controlled with medications. Once a patient has advanced cirrhosis, a liver transplant is the only treatment option. Also, a very effective vaccine is available for Hepatitis B prevention.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C, like B, can cause progressive liver injury, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Very effective oral medical treatment is available for Hepatitis C, which needs to be taken for 3 to 6 months only and can cure Hepatitis C. But it is important to screen, identify and treat patients before permanent liver damage has set in. It mostly spreads through transfusion of contaminated blood products. Hence it is important to be aware and to get yourself screened for these viruses as safe and very effective treatment is available for Hepatitis B and C.
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