Hepatitis
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. The liver is a vital organ that processes
nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or
damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some
medications, and certain medical conditions can cause hepatitis. However,
hepatitis is often caused by a virus.
Hepatitis A
This type won’t lead to long-term infection and usually doesn’t cause
any complications. Your liver heals in about 2 months. You can
prevent it with a vaccine.
Hepatitis B
Most people recover from this type in 6 months. Sometimes, though,
it causes a long-term infection that could lead to liver damage. Once
you’ve got the disease, you can spread the virus even if you don’t feel
sick. You won’t catch it if you get a vaccine.
Hepatitis C
Many people with this type don’t have any symptoms. About 80% of
those with the disease get a long-term infection. It can sometimes lead
to cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver.