Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory conditions of the liver it's commonly caused by a viral infection, but there are other possible causes of hepatitis. This includes autoimmune hepatitis and hepatitis that occurs as a secondary result of medication, drugs, toxin, and alcohol. Autoimmune hepatitis is a disease that occurs when your body makes antibodies against your liver tissues.

  Globally, viral, it was the seventh leading cause of death in 2013,up from the tenth leading cause in 1990. Worldwide, hepatitis is responsible for an estimated 1.4 million infection annually. About 2 billion people inthe World have evidence of past or current HBV infection. 

          Types and causes of hepatitis 

   Viral infection of the liver that are classified as hepatitis includes, hepatitis, A, B, C, D, E. A different virus is responsible for each type of virally transmitted hepatitis. 
   Hepatitis A is always an acute, short term disease, while hepatitis, B, C, and D are mostly likely to be ongoing and chronic. Hepatitis E is usually acute but canbe particularly dangerous in pregnant women. 

Hepatitis A

    Hepatitis A is caused by an infection with the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). This type of hepatitis is mostly commonly transmitted by consuming foods and water contaminated by feces from a person infected with hepatitis A. 

Hepatitis B

     Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as, blood, vagina secretion or semen containing the Hepatitis b virus(HBV).  Infection, drug use, having sex with an infected partner or sharing razor with the infected person increase your risk of getting hepatitis B. 
  It is estimated by the CD that's 12 millions people inthe United States and 350 millions of people worldwide live with this chronic disease. 

Hepatitis C

   Hepatitis C comes from the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids typically through injection drug use and sexual contact. Hepatitis C is among the most common  bloodborne viral infections in the world. Approximately, 2.7 to 3.9 million Americans are currently living with a chronic form of this infection. 

Hepatitis D

  Also called Delta hepatitis, hepatitis D is a serious liver disease caused by the Hepatitis D virus (HDV). Hepatitis D is transmitted through direct contact with infected blood. Hepatitis D is a rare form of hepatitis that only occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection. The Hepatitis D infection cannot multiply without the presence of  hepatitis B. It is very uncommon in most places. 

Hepatitis E

    Hepatitis E is a water borne diseases caused by the Hepatitis E virus (HEV). Hepatitis E is mainly found in place with poor sanitation and typically results from ingesting fecel matter that contaminates the water supply. The disease is uncommon in the United States but more common in African countries. 

Autoimmune hepatitis 

  Autoimmune hepatitis is a rare form of chronic hepatitis. Like other autoimmune disorder it's exact cause is unknown. Autoimmune hepatitis may develop on its own or it may be associated with other autoimmune disorder, such as  systematic lupus erythematoses in autoimmune disorder, a misdirected immune system attacks the body's own cells and organs especially the liver. 

               Symptoms of hepatitis 

There are many symptoms of hepatitis, some of which are, 
  • Jaundice ( a yellowing of the skin and eyes) 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Diarrhea
  • Clay  Colored bowel movements 
  • Painful joints 

      Complications of hepatitis 

Chronic hepatitis B or C can often lead to more serious health problems, because the virus affects the liver, people with chronic hepatitis B and C are at risk for, 
  • Chronic liver disease 
  • Cirrhosis, liver cancer 
When your liver stops functioning normally liver failure can occur. Complications of liver failure includes, 

BLEEDING DISORDER 
  A build up of fluids in your abdomen, known as ascites.
  • Increase blood pressure in portal veins that enters your liver, known as portal hypertension 
  • Hepatic encephalopathy, which can involve fatigue, memory loss, and diminished mental abilities due to build up of toxins, like ammonia that affects brain function  
  • Liver cancer
  • In most extreme cases, it may lead to death 
People with chronic B and C are encouraged to avoid alcohol, because it can accelerate liver disease and failure. Certain supplements and medicines can also affect liver function. If you have Chronic hepatitis B and C, check your doctor before taking a new medicines. 

     Diagnosis and test for hepatitis 

Liver function test

 Liver function tests uses blood samples to determine how effectively your liver works. Abnormal result of this test maybe the first indication that there is a problem, especially if you don't show any results on a physical exam of liver disease. 

Ultrasounds 

  An abdominal ultrasound uses ultrasound waves to create an image of the organ within your abdomen. This test allows your doctor to take a close look at your liver and nearby organs. it can reveal,
  • Fluids in your abdomen 
  • Liver damage or enlargement 
  • Liver tumour 
  • Abnormality of your gall bladder 
 Sometimes the pancreas shows up on ultrasound image as well. This canbe a useful test in determining the cause of your abnormal liver function. 

Liver biopsy 

   A liver biopsy is an invasive procedure, that involves your doctor thing a sample of tissue from your liver. It canbe done through your skin with a needle and doesn't reguired surgery. Typically, an ultrasound is used to guide your doctor when taking the biopsy sample.

       Treatments and medication 

Treatments options is determined by which type of hepatitis you have and whether the infection is acute or chronic. 

Hepatitis A

  Hepatitis A, usually doesn't reguired treatment, because it's a short term illness. Bedrest maybe recommended, if symptoms cause a great deal of discomforts. If  you experience vomiting or diarrhea follow your doctor order on hydration and nutrition. 

 The Hepatitis A vaccine are available to prevent this infection, most children begin vaccination between age 12 to 18 months, it's a series of two vaccine. Vaccination for hepatitis A is also available for adult and canbe combined with the Hepatitis B vaccine.

Hepatitis B 

Acute hepatitis B does not reguire specific treatment. Chronic hepatitis B is treated with antiviral medication. This  form of treatment canbe costly because it must be continued for several months or years. Treatment for chronic also reguires regular medical evaluation and monitoring to determine, if the virus is responding to treatment.
 Hepatitis B can be prevented with vaccination. The CDC recommends hepatitis B vaccination for all newborn. The series of three vaccine are typically completed over the first six months of childhood. The vaccine is also recommended for all healthcare and medical personnel.

Hepatitis C

 Antiviral medication are used to treat both acute and chronic form of hepatitis C, people who develop chronic hepatitis are typically treated with a combination of antiviral drugs therapy. They may also need further testing to determine the best form of treatment. People who develop cirrhosis (scaring of the lung) or liver disease as a result of  chronic hepatitis. Maybe candidates for a liver transplant. Currently there Is no vaccination for hepatitis C.

Hepatitis D 

No antiviral medication exist for the treatment of hepatitis D at this time. According to a 2003,study, a drug called alpha interferon canbe used to treat hepatitis D, but it only shows improvement in about, 25 to 30 percent of people. Hepatitis D canbe prevented getting the vaccination for hepatitis B, as infection with hepatitis B, is necessary for hepatitis D to develop.

Hepatitis E

   Currently no specific medical therapy available to treat hepatitis E, because the infection is often acute, it typically revolves on it own. People with these type of infection are often advised to get adequate rest, drink plenty of fluids, get enough nutrient and avoid alcohol. However pregnant women who develop 5his infections reguires close monitoring and care.

Autoimmune hepatitis 

   Corticosteroids like prednisone and budisonide are extremely important inthe early treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. They are effective in about 80 percent of people with this condition. Azathioprine a drug that suppress the immune system, is often included in treatment. It canbe used with or without steroid.

                    Foods to eat

   While most people with hepatitis C do not reguired a special diet, there are certain foods people can eat to maintain good liver health. 

Fruits and vegetables 

   Dark green, leafy vegetables inthe markets place including kale, cabbage, and spinach. This vegetable maybe particularly beneficial for people with hepatitis C. 
   A healthy and balanced diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables. People should aim to consume at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day, these will help lessen fat acid composition in the liver. Becareful leafy green vegetables are source of iron, which may be harmful to those with hepatitis C when consumed in excess.

Protein 

   Getting adequate amount of protein is important as it provides energy and can help a person to feel full. Replacing a portion of simple carbohydrates with protein is a good way to reduce the risk of conditions such as, diabetes. Good sources of protein includes ;  Turkey, Cheese, Egg, Fish, Nuts and beans. Diary products also provide protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Low fat or fat free version of dairy are the best choice for people with hepatitis C people should limit dairy protein with added sugar. 

 Complex carbohydrates 

     Cereal, bread and grain are all examples of complex carbohydrates and are packed with B vitamins and minerals, as well as zinc and fibre. Complex carbohydrates include ;
 Oatmeal, brown rice, whole oat, and whole wheat. 

              Prevention of hepatitis 

There are many steps you can take to reduce the risk of viral hepatitis. 
  • Consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. If you were not vaccinated as a child. This is the number one way to prevent this illness.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or changing a baby diaper and before handling foods. 
  • When travelling in developing countries avoid Unpeeled or raw foods. Drink only bottle, boiled or chemically treated water. 
  • If you are pregnant seek early and regular Prenatal care
  • Wear gloves when performing first aid 
  • Disinfect blood spills with diluted bleach and wear gloves during cleanup. 
  • Practice safe sex, use some protective to reduce risk of getting the disease from, unprotected sex. 
  • Never share, syringe, shaving razor, toothbrush and tattooing equipment
    To reduce the risk of  non viral hepatitis, avoid excess alcohol consumption and consult with a health care professional about medication and treatmen.