Our liver is one of the major internal organs of our body that works nonstop to purify our blood as well as to produce and store essential micronutrients that are required by our body. When the liver is infected or sore, it fails to perform its functions and this results in the signs and symptoms manifested by hepatitis. The word hepatitis is a combination of hpar or hpat, which means liver in ancient Greek, and itis (the Greek word for inflammation). Thus, hepatitis simply means inflammation of the liver.
1 What Are The Causes Of Hepatitis?
Inflammation of the liver can be caused by various conditions, illnesses, some foods and drinks, certain medications and also viruses. Speaking about viruses, virus types A, B, C, D, E, F, and G have been reported to cause infectious hepatitis. With medical advances and our quest for knowledge, the alphabetical list will only get longer. The most common are hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Of these, HBV and HCV can cause chronic hepatitis that can lead to conditions of liver cirrhosis and also liver cancer if left untreated.
Hepatitis A infections are often mild and can be treated easily compared to the others. Upon treatment and recovery, patients get immune to the virus. There is also a safe and effective vaccine available. This type is more common in places with poor hygiene and sanitation conditions.
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections can be caused by one or more of the following:
Sharing needle with an infected person
Having unprotected sex with an infected person
Sharing personal items like toothbrush and razor blade with an infected person
Receiving a blood transfusion from an infected person
Having a tattoo created using an unsterile or infected needle
Bitten by an infected person
Through lactation from an infected mother
When the virus enters through a break in the skin.
Both HBV and HCV infections are treatable, depending on the severity of the infection. There is a safe and effective vaccine available to protect us from HBV. However, there is no vaccine yet against HCV. Ongoing research and medical advances may result in more effective prevention and treatment options soon.
2 What Are The Symptoms Of Hepatitis?
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 2019-Ausgabe von Health Today Malaysia.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 2019-Ausgabe von Health Today Malaysia.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
When Depression Strikes Teenagers
It can be difficult to imagine that those in the carefree days of youth can be hit by such a somber illness. However, the numbers don’t lie: a significant number of young people suffer from depression and this figure is on the rise. Our contributing psychiatrist reveals the facts about teenage depression and how to spot the signs.
5 Things You Should Know About Probiotics
If you haven’t heard of probiotics or have been wondering what they are, here are some basics on the topic to get you started.
Internet Safety For Children
There’s nothing more comforting than to have your chicks safely back in the roost as they unwind on their gadgets in the solace of their rooms. But are they truly alone in their rooms and are they truly safe? Online gadgets are windows to another world, and no one is looking out for your child there. So how do we shield them from the unwarranted possibilities that lie in that realm?
A Cuppa Joe, Anyone?
Coffee, one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world, is derived from the beans of Coffea canephora (best known as robusta) and C. arabica. Coffee is unique in terms of its perceived and actual effects on the body and is also loved for its distinct aroma and taste. Our general perception about coffee is that it can keep us awake. However, its benefits go beyond the “wake-me-up” action and it can be categorized as a health drink.
Emilia Clarke - Conquers Real-life Adversities
Her on-screen character, Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones was meant to be a blend of Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Lawrence of Arabia—courageous heroes of the past. But when illness struck actress Emilia Clarke, she had to channel some of that strength and bravery into her real-life situation.
The Fertility Revolution
A pioneer in Malaysia's fertility treatment offers his insight on two revolutionaryadvances that made a big difference in bringing hope to many couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
6 Skin Myths Debunked
A pimple has erupted on your nose (oh, horrors). Family members and friends are quick to give you well-meaning advice, while the internet abounds with ‘effective’ tips and solutions. But how do you know if any of that information is true?
Addiction: What You Don't Know
Addictive behaviours have been described as one of the greatest scourages of humankind. In order to treat it, we have to first understand what courses it.
Hello, Hunky Hemsworth!
With the third Thor movie, Thor: Ragnarok set to open in just a few weeks, we turn our attention to the big, blond, easy-on-the eyes star – Chris Hemsworth.
Battling Two Cancers
Being diagnosed with liver cancer was bad enough, but as he was fighting for recovery, Mohd Salleh Yusof was struck by lung cancer as well. Determined to enjoy life to the fullest, Salleh shares his experience with HealthToday.
