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Synopsis

Hepatitis is a serious health condition that affects the liver and causes inflammation. It can lead to serious health hazards and complications, such as liver cirrhosis and liver failure. A variety of factors can cause hepatitis, and timely treatment can help effectively tackle the health concern. The treatment option will depend on the type of hepatitis and other underlying factors. But, what is hepatitis disease? Let’s explore.

Introduction

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body. It is responsible for filtering toxins out of the body. Any condition that affects the liver can pose severe health threats. Hepatitis is one such condition that causes inflammation of the liver and other problems with the body's gastrointestinal system. Knowing the potential symptoms and taking the required preventive steps will significantly reduce your chances of getting Hepatitis. Thus, taking the necessary precautions, identifying symptoms at early stages, and taking the diagnosis seriously for a timely cure of the disease is essential.

Healthcare leaders like Gleneagles Hospitals have made world-class hepatitis B treatment in Mumbai​. We offer the most advanced treatment solutions, with our robust infrastructure and expert doctors.

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a liver inflammation condition that can be either short-term or long-term. The conditions disrupt the liver functions, further causing other health issues. There are different types of hepatitis. Viral hepatitis is caused by viral infection, and it can be chronic or acute. Acute viral hepatitis lasts for less than six months, whereas chronic hepatitis stays for more than six months. Hepatitis can be spread by close contact with the affected person. Many things and lifestyle habits can trigger liver damage and hepatitis. The symptoms of hepatitis are sudden and can impact the quality of your life.

What Causes Hepatitis?

Hepatitis can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause of hepatitis is a virus. Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E can be caused by contaminated water, unprotected intercourse, and blood transfusion. Exposure to toxins can also cause different types of hepatitis viruses. Uncontrolled consumption of alcoholic drinks can cause liver damage and hepatitis. One other crucial cause of hepatitis is the overuse of certain medications and exposure to certain harmful chemicals. An autoimmune hepatitis can be caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver cells which are affected by the virus. Metabolic disorders like fatty liver can also contribute to hepatitis.

Some reasons by which hepatitis can be transmitted include:

 

  • Through Body Fluids- The hepatitis disease can spread through the contact of body fluids like saliva, vaginal fluid, and semen. Chronic Hepatitis can also be transmitted genetically.
  • Food Poisoning- Eating or drinking contaminated food or water that has been affected by the hepatitis virus can cause Hepatitis type A and type E.
  • Blood Contamination- The person who has hepatitis B, C, or D can spread it to anyone who comes in contact with their blood. This generally happens when people share needles for intravenous drug consumption. Hepatitis B causes can vary depending on the stage. 
     

Thus, keeping a check on your food habits is crucial. Avoid too much junk food and contaminated water, and ensure that you drink clean and purified water. Always prefer home-cooked, hygienic meals over ready-to-eat fast food or street-site snacks, as the food you eat outside can increase your chances of exposure to unhealthy bacteria and viruses drastically.

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Symptoms of Hepatitis

The symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the type of virus and the severity of the individual's condition. Some of the common symptoms of hepatitis are mentioned below.

Acute hepatitis usually has mild symptoms that appear suddenly and resolve within a few weeks.

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Nausea and Loss of Appetite
  • Abdominal Pain (upper right side of the stomach)
  • Joint Pain
  • Itchy Skin 
     

Chronic hepatitis, on the other hand, has more severe symptoms and might cause significant damage to the liver.

  • Persistent Fatigue
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy (disorientation, confusion, personality changes, and forgetfulness)
  • Unexplained and sudden weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the white parts of the eye)
  • Dark urine and pale stools
  • Persistent swelling in legs

Diagnosis of Hepatitis

The diagnosis of Hepatitis is done with a combination of tests and evaluations. An early diagnosis can help treat the condition on time and prevent any further liver damage and other health complications. The diagnosis methods include:

 

  • Physical Evaluation: Your healthcare provider will perform a physical evaluation to identify any signs of hepatitis or liver inflammation. Other symptoms of the disease, like jaundice and fluid in the abdomen, can also be monitored by a physical examination.
  • Blood Tests: A blood test is used to get a more accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition. It gives a precise overview of the liver enzymes, antibodies, and hepatitis virus-affected cells.
  • Imaging Tests: Along with the blood work, many medical imaging technologies like MRI, CT scan, and ultrasounds are used to assess the liver condition.
  • Liver Biopsy: In some cases where the issue is not identifiable through other methods, a liver biopsy is a viable option for providing a detailed analysis of the liver tissues. A needle takes a sample from the liver, which is then monitored under a microscope. Local anaesthesia is provided to the patient. Therefore, no pain should be felt during the procedure.
  • Fibroscan: It is a non-invasive technique to check the liver for conditions such as liver cirrhosis or liver fibrosis.

Treatment of Hepatitis

The hepatitis B treatment in Mumbai​ depends on the type of hepatitis with which you are affected. There is no single and fixed proven way of treating Hepatitis. Some of the common treatment procedures are:

  • Hepatitis A and E- These types of hepatitis are short-term with mild symptoms and usually subside with proper rest and hydration. Hepatitis treatment in Mumbai​ is not needed.
  • Hepatitis B and C- Hepatitis C treatment includes antiviral medications that can help manage these infections and prevent liver damage. In some cases, lifetime medication would be required. People who are suffering from chronic Hepatitis B and have developed liver issues like Liver cirrhosis would need a liver transplant.
  • Autoimmune Hepatitis- Immunosuppressives help manage autoimmune hepatitis. Taking immunosuppressives your doctor suggests for your individual needs is recommended.
  • Toxic Hepatitis- Lifestyle changes and avoiding the consumption of any harmful intoxicants can help in managing the symptoms of this type of hepatitis.
  • Other Severe Cases- In severe cases where the Hepatitis has been left untreated or has caused chronic liver damage, a liver transplant is the only treatment option left.
Treatment of Hepatitis

Preventive Measures for Hepatitis

  • Vaccination: Hepatitis A and B vaccines are available and are extremely effective in preventing these conditions.
  • Hygiene Practices: Avoid consuming contaminated food and sharing needles, and use protection. Adopting some hygienic practices can significantly reduce the chances of Hepatitis.
  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Too much consumption of alcohol can cause liver damage. It is advised to limit alcohol consumption to become less prone to health conditions like Hepatitis.
  • Regular Medical Checkups: Getting a regular full-body health checkup done for you and your family members can help detect the condition at an early stage, which helps in effectively managing the symptoms.
  • Taking Proper Medications: Following your doctor’s advice and taking the right medication is necessary to prevent Hepatitis or manage it effectively.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery period from Hepatitis can vary for every individual and depends on the condition type and its severity. Taking good rest, drinking ample water, and a balanced, nutritious diet should be followed to speed up the recovery process. The aftercare of the hepatitis treatment in Mumbai​ is equally important as it ensures that the body recovers completely from the damage and the physiological health of the body is restored. Regular follow-up checkups can further help monitor health, ensuring the infection does not occur again and that no other complications are present.

Why Choose Gleneagles Hospitals for Hepatitis Treatment?

Gleneagles Hospital is the ideal choice for Hepatitis treatment because of its world-class medical staff with expertise in liver diseases, a team of specialised hepatologists, access to advanced technology and treatment options, a focus on patient care, and a reputation for providing comprehensive liver care including liver transplants, making them a well-rounded option for managing hepatitis conditions across various stages. Gleneagles Hospital is known for providing the best viral Hepatitis treatment in Mumbai and gives you access to the best doctor for hepatitis in Mumbai​. The treatment approach at Gleneagles Hospitals matches international standards, and personalised care is provided to every patient for optimum results.

If you are looking for the best Hepatitis treatment in Mumbai, then leading healthcare providers like Gleneagles Hospitals can be trusted without any hesitation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is hepatitis curable?

Yes, hepatitis is mostly curable. Hepatitis, like A and E, can resolve on its own. Types B and C require long-term medication and treatment but can be controlled with the right guidance.

Q2. How is hepatitis transmitted?

Hepatitis can spread through a variety of ways. Contaminated food, bodily fluids, unprotected sex, and shared needles are some of the reasons for Hepatitis B transmission.

Q3. Can I get vaccinated against hepatitis?

Yes, vaccines for hepatitis A and B are available and are highly effective in preventing the condition.

Q4. What foods should I avoid if I have hepatitis?

You should avoid consuming processed foods, alcohol, excessive fats, high-sugar diet, and carbonated drinks during your hepatitis treatment in Mumbai​.

Q5. How long does recovery from hepatitis take?

The recovery duration varies, but generally, mild cases can be resolved in weeks, while chronic hepatitis might require lifelong medication and monitoring.

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