Understanding Hepatitis: Types and Risk Factors

Understanding Hepatitis: Classification and Causes
Hepatitis refers to liver inflammation, which can occur due to various reasons. Inflammation is the body's natural response to damage or irritants, often causing swelling, redness, and discomfort. Different types of hepatitis are distinguished based on their causes, especially viral origin in many cases. The severity varies, leading to either acute or chronic conditions, with several specific types:

Types

Hepatitis A
Typically not leading to long-term issues, hepatitis A is a common foodborne illness that usually resolves within two months. Rarely, it can cause serious liver failure, which may be deadly. Vaccination remains the best preventive measure.

Hepatitis B
Most cases of hepatitis B occur in young people aged 15 to 39. Recovery can take around six months, but some individuals develop chronic infections, resulting in ongoing liver damage. Early-age infection increases the risk of chronicity.

Hepatitis C
A leading cause of liver disease and transplantation, hepatitis C often remains silent with no symptoms, making diagnosis difficult. Around 80% of infected individuals develop a chronic condition. No vaccine exists for hepatitis C.

Risk factors for hepatitis
Certain behaviors and conditions increase the likelihood of infection. These range from minor exposures to significant health habits:

Hepatitis A

Consuming contaminated food or water exposure can lead to hepatitis A, especially if hygiene practices are poor.

Hepatitis B

Unprotected sexual contact with infected persons

Sharing needles or syringes contaminated with blood

Contact with infected blood

Needle stick injuries

Vertical transmission from infected mother to child

Hepatitis C

Sharing personal items like needles or razors

Blood transfusions with contaminated blood

Needle stick injuries involving infected blood