What Is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is a term used to describe an inflammation (often a viral infection) of the liver tissue that can hinder its normal functioning. Hepatitis viruses attack the liver and may result in acute or chronic hepatitis. Sometimes, hepatitis is self-limiting, but it can also progress to chronic liver diseases like liver cancer, cirrhosis, or fibrosis (scarring).
The Liver: Composition and Function
The liver is one of the major organs in the body and has vital metabolic functions. From converting nutrients into energy to eliminating toxic substances from the body, the liver plays an essential role in all metabolic processes of the body. The liver is also involved in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.
Composition Of Liver Tissue
Liver tissue is composed of a large number of cells called hepatocytes or hepatic cells, which are crisscrossed with blood vessels and bile ducts. About 60% of liver tissue comprises hepatic cells that execute more metabolic functions than any other cell in the body. Liver tissue is also composed of Kupffer cells. Kupffer cells are involved in the ingestion of cellular debris and foreign invaders and antibody production.
Symptoms Of Hepatitis
There are about 2.3 billion people in the world who are infected with one or another virus causing hepatitis. Viral hepatitis causes an estimated 1.4 million deaths worldwide each year. There are often no noticeable symptoms of acute hepatitis in its early stages. The following are some common symptoms that may appear:
- Dark urine
- Vomiting and nausea
- Muscle and joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Extreme fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Pale eyes and skin (jaundice)
Types Of Hepatitis
The five main types of viral hepatitis are the following:
Hepatitis A
This type is caused by the hepatitis A virus by consuming water and food contaminated with faeces of a hepatitis A-infected person.
Hepatitis B
HBV is responsible for hepatitis B. It is transmitted via blood contact with a person infected with hepatitis B. In this way, injecting drugs and having unprotected sex may also cause hepatitis B.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is one of the most widespread blood-borne viral infections that is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact and sexual contact with a person infected with hepatitis C.
Hepatitis D
This rare type of hepatitis only occurs in association with hepatitis B. It is spread through blood-to-blood contact with the infected person.
Hepatitis E
This infection is spread through the consumption of raw/uncooked meat, poor sanitation, and ingestion of faecal matter.
Sources
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.