The Hepatitis Virus A-B-C Explained

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver and there are three main categories of infective hepatitis namely, A, B and C.

Hepatitis A

One of the mildest categories of hepatitis, hepatitis A is usually contracted from food or drink which has been contaminated. The condition has an incubation period of between two and six weeks and symptoms will take the form of a flu like illness along with tiredness and a jaundiced yellow appearance to the skin. The majority of individuals who contract hepatitis will recover without requiring any specific treatments however, adults with the condition should avoid alcohol consumption along with the oral contraceptive pill until such time as your blood tests provide the evidence that your liver has returned to normal levels. Thankfully, the virus is a relatively rare condition thanks to vaccinations. If you’re looking to travel to any high-risk area you should first consult your doctor who may be able to administer the vaccine. When you are travelling to foreign lands insure that you wash fruit and salad leaves in boiled or bottled water.

Hepatitis B

A much more serious condition which is transmitted through blood contact or sexual intercourse. The virus itself can survive on services exterior to the body for around a week and the incubation period of hepatitis B is around 3 to 6 months. This means that you can have the condition for a considerable period before it being identified thereby making it easier to transmit the disease without knowing it. A far more serious condition than hepatitis A, hepatitis B can lead to chronic infections along with the risk of developing cirrhosis. Along with hepatitis a B, a virus is also available in a vaccine.

Hepatitis C

This virus is transported throughout our bodies using our blood as the carrier. The majority of individuals who suffer with hepatitis C do not show any symptoms and around 25% of people carrying the virus will be able to have it cleared from their systems without experiencing any long-term issues. If left untreated however there was a 20% chance of developing cirrhosis therefore if you believe you have the virus, then it is imperative that you consult your doctor or medical practitioner to receive the appropriate treatment.