Hepatitis—also known as viral hepatitis—is a condition used to describe inflammation of the liver. The liver is a vital organ that filters blood, processes nutrients, produces bile, and supports immune function. When the liver becomes inflamed, it can swell and lose its ability to function properly.

Hepatitis is a widespread health issue, especially in regions lacking access to clean water and vaccines. According to global health data, hundreds of millions of people are living with chronic forms of hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C. For this reason, recognizing symptoms, knowing when to seek medical help, and learning prevention methods are critical.

Types of Hepatitis

There are five main types of hepatitis: A, B, C, D, and E. Each is caused by a different virus and may have different effects on the body. Hepatitis can be acute—meaning it develops quickly and may resolve on its own—or chronic, which persists over time and can lead to severe complications.

Here is an overview of each type:

Symptoms

Many people with hepatitis may not notice any symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic.

Common symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Loss of appetite

• Pale stools and dark urine

• Joint pain

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Acute symptoms may appear between two weeks and six months after exposure. Chronic hepatitis often shows no signs until complications like cirrhosis or liver failure develop years later.

Causes

Each type of hepatitis is caused by a different virus. Transmission routes include:

• Consuming contaminated food or water

• Using needles or syringes that are not sterile

• Exchanging bodily fluids such as blood or semen

• Contact with infected urine or stool

• Unprotected sexual activity

• Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth

Risk Factors

Anyone can contract hepatitis, but certain factors increase the risk, such as:

• Lack of access to clean water or nutritious food

• Limited healthcare services and vaccinations

• Traveling to countries where hepatitis is more prevalent

• Sharing needles

• Having unprotected sex

• Men who have sex with men

• Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals

Diagnosis

If you think you might have been exposed to hepatitis or are showing symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider. Diagnosis often begins with a review of medical history and a physical exam. The provider may then order specific tests, such as:

• Liver function tests: Measures how well your liver is working

• Antibody tests: Detects your immune response to hepatitis viruses

• Imaging tests: Ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs to check for liver damage

• Liver biopsy: A small tissue sample is examined for inflammation or cancer

Treatment

Treatment varies depending on the type of hepatitis and whether it is acute or chronic. Common treatment options include:

• Supportive care like rest, hydration, and proper nutrition

• Antiviral medications, especially for hepatitis B or C

• Anti-inflammatory drugs to manage liver inflammation

In cases of advanced liver damage, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or liver transplantation may be necessary.

How to Prevent Hepatitis

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis A and B. The World Health Organization also recommends regular hepatitis screening.

Other preventive steps include:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water

• Using protection during sexual activity

• Not sharing needles or syringes

• Drinking bottled or purified water when traveling

• Minimizing exposure to infected individuals

Complications

Chronic hepatitis—particularly hepatitis B and C—can lead to serious liver complications. These include:

• Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver that may affect its function

• Liver failure: When the liver stops working properly

• Liver cancer: Increased risk, especially without timely treatment

A significant percentage of people with chronic hepatitis C develop cirrhosis within two decades. Early diagnosis and adherence to a treatment plan can greatly reduce the risk of these complications.

Living With Hepatitis

Being diagnosed with hepatitis can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. Talking openly with your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment options is essential.

Depending on your hepatitis type, your provider might suggest rest or prescribe antiviral medications. It’s also important to discuss how to avoid passing the virus to others and how to protect yourself from further health issues.

The good news is that ongoing research and increased funding have led to better treatments, higher awareness, and greater chances of managing or curing hepatitis. These advancements are helping reduce global hepatitis rates and improve the quality of life for those affected.