January is ‘Love your Liver’ awareness month, so to help you with your understanding of a common liver disease, Hepatitis, we thought it would be a good idea to give you some background information on this condition.

What is it?

The term Hepatitis means inflammation of the Liver. This can be caused by a number of infectious viruses, as well as non-infectious agents leading to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal.

Short term Hepatitis can sometimes have no symptoms; however, symptoms can include the following:

Muscle and joint pain.
High temperature.
Nausea and vomiting.
Loss of appetite.
Abdominal pain.
Dark urine.
Pale faeces (poo).
Itchy skin.
Yellowing of eyes and skin (Jaundice).

Long term Hepatitis may also not have any symptoms until acute Liver failure and may only be picked up by blood tests. Some symptoms might include:

Swelling in the legs, ankles and feet.
Blood in the stools or vomit.

Causes of Hepatitis

There are a number of different causes for Hepatitis which can depend on which type of Hepatitis the individual develops.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is typically spread through consuming food or water contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. It is more common in areas with poor sanitation. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and Jaundice. While there is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A, symptoms can be managed, and the infection usually resolves on its own within a few months. Vaccination is recommended for those at high risk or traveling to areas where the virus is prevalent ¹.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, from an infected person. This can occur through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. Acute Hepatitis B often resolves on its own, but chronic Hepatitis B can lead to serious Liver damage, including Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer. Treatment for chronic Hepatitis B includes antiviral medications to reduce the virus’s impact on the Liver. Vaccination is available and recommended for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers and people who inject drugs ¹and²

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, often via sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. Unlike Hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C. However, it can be treated effectively with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications, which have a high success rate in clearing the infection. Treatment typically involves taking these medications for 8 to 12 weeks. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term liver damage ³.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D, also known as “Hepatitis Delta,” is unique because it requires the presence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate. It is transmitted through contact with infected blood, similar to Hepatitis. This can also lead to Cirrhosis of the Liver or Liver Cancer but, currently, there is no vaccine.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of faecal matter, usually via contaminated water. It is more common in areas with poor sanitation. Is generally a mild and short-term infection that does not need treatment. Can be serious in those with a weakened immune system. No vaccination. The British Liver Trust has more information about Hepatitis E.

Alcoholic Hepatitis

Alcoholic Hepatitis is a serious condition caused by excessive alcohol consumption, leading to inflammation of the Liver. Heavy drinking over many years damages Liver cells, causing inflammation and scarring. The body’s process of breaking down alcohol produces toxic chemicals that harm Liver cells. It may be stopped if a person stops drinking but, if the damage is too great, could lead to Cirrhosis, Cancer and death.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

A rare form of Hepatitis where a person’s own immune system attacks and damages the Liver. Treatments can include immunosuppressant medication to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.

Next steps and Guidance

In the event of someone experiencing any of the symptoms detailed above, their first step would be to speak with their GP. Be honest about any drug use or unprotected sex, as these can be a cause for certain types of Hepatitis. Also ensure that any overseas travel or alcohol use are mentioned.

The GP may take bloods for assessment and may refer you for investigations or scans. Rarely a person may require a Biopsy.

Should a person be prescribed medication, it is important they keep taking it and that they report any potential side effects.

For more detailed information, you can visit the NHS website or consult with healthcare professionals.

Further information can be found via the World Health Organisation – https://www.who.int/health-topics/hepatitis#tab=tab_1

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