For World Hepatitis Day, we’re playing our part in spreading awareness about Hepatitis related diseases. Today is a day that the world comes together under one theme to raise awareness of the crisis of viral hepatitis. The World Hepatitis Day Organization’s theme for 2021 is ‘Hepatitis Can’t Wait.’ This family practice Greenville, NC is going to do our part in raising awareness by discussing what viral hepatitis is and how you can spot some common symptoms.

What Is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver. Viral hepatitis is most common, although there are other possible causes of hepatitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.4 million Americans are currently facing chronic hepatitis B and C.

The Different Types Of Hepatitis

There are multiple forms of hepatitis, and each affects the body differently.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is caused by an infection from the hepatitis A virus. This hepatitis is most commonly passed by consuming food and water contaminated by feces from a person infected with hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is transmitted through direct contact with infectious bodily fluids. Blood, vaginal secretions, and semen are all different bodily fluids that can leave you contracted with hepatitis B. Injection drug use, sharing razors with an infected person, or having sex with an infected person all increase your risk of contracting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis C

Like hepatitis B, hepatitis C is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, typically through injection drug use and sexual contact. HCV is among the most common bloodborne viral infections in the U.S.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is one of the more severe hepatitis diseases. It is contracted through direct contact with infected blood. Hepatitis D is also more rare form, as it only occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is a waterborne disease. It is mainly found in areas with poor sanitation. Hepatitis E is typically resulted from ingesting fecal matter that contaminates the water supply.

How Do I Spot Hepatitis?

It’s important to note that with some forms of hepatitis, you may not see symptoms in the beginning. Family practice Greenville, NC suggests that signs of acute hepatitis appear quickly, however. These include:

• fatigue
• abdominal pain
• unexplained weight loss
• yellowing skin and eyes
• dark urine
• flu-like symptoms

Greenville Health Care | Greenville, NC

As the number one family practice Greenville, NC, we are dedicated to raising awareness about the battle that the healthcare field is fighting against hepatitis. If you or a loved one believe that you may have contracted a hepatitis infection, visit our family practice Greenville, NC. We will provide you with care and develop a health plan.