How long can viral hepatitis last?

Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
Updated on September 19, 2024
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The lifespan of someone with viral hepatitis is closely linked to the severity of their condition and also greatly depends on the patient's own actions. There are many influencing factors, and it is not possible to generalize. If the patient adheres to conventional treatment, regular check-ups, rests adequately, maintains a sensible diet, and abstains from alcohol, most conditions can be effectively managed, significantly reducing the chances of the disease progressing further. Therefore, patients need not worry excessively; maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude can further aid in recovery from the disease.

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
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How to test for viral hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis is primarily caused by hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses. However, its diagnosis is mainly confirmed through blood tests by examining serological results. It is generally difficult to differentiate clinically because conditions like hepatitis A and E have very similar clinical manifestations. Similarly, hepatitis B and C can show similar symptoms during certain stages of the disease. Therefore, the examination of viral hepatitis primarily involves blood tests for serological studies of the hepatitis virus.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Does viral hepatitis cause diarrhea?

Patients with viral hepatitis generally do not experience diarrhea. However, if liver function is significantly abnormal, it can lead to disruption of the gastrointestinal microbial flora, which significantly affects digestive function and may cause diarrhea. Viral hepatitis can lead to a series of related symptoms, such as fatigue, aversion to oil, nausea, abdominal distension, and poor appetite. In particularly severe cases, there may also be signs of increased bilirubin and jaundice, which require treatment based on the actual situation.

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Written by Zhang Jian Kang
Infectious Disease
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What are the types of viral hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis, in terms of etiology, mainly includes hepatitis caused by several viruses such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis D, Hepatitis E, non-A, and non-E. In terms of clinical classification, it mainly includes five types: acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver failure, cholestatic hepatitis, and hepatitis cirrhosis. Among them, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E can easily cause acute hepatitis, and Hepatitis B can also lead to the occurrence of acute hepatitis. The most common types of chronic hepatitis are Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, which can progress to cirrhosis if not promptly controlled. Liver failure can be caused by these viruses as well, with liver failure caused by Hepatitis B being the most common.

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
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How to prevent viral hepatitis

Viral hepatitis can be divided into five types based on the cause: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis D, and Hepatitis E. Hepatitis A and E are mostly transmitted through the fecal-oral route. Therefore, to prevent Hepatitis A and E, it is essential to protect water sources, pay attention to food hygiene, and personal hygiene, and avoid eating raw seafood and similar foods. Hepatitis B and C, on the other hand, are mainly transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. The prevention of Hepatitis C and B primarily involves avoiding unsafe sexual activities with patients with Hepatitis B or C. Hepatitis B can also be prevented through the administration of Hepatitis B vaccine and immune globulin.

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Written by Zhang Jian Kang
Infectious Disease
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Treatment of viral hepatitis

Once viral hepatitis occurs, the liver function is obviously abnormal. Patients may have significant discomfort symptoms such as fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, and bloating after eating. Therefore, the treatment of patients with viral hepatitis mainly consists of two aspects. The first aspect is bed rest combined with a light, low-fat diet. The second aspect is pharmacological treatment. For patients with significantly abnormal liver function, medications that protect the liver and reduce enzyme levels are needed. If significant jaundice occurs, medications to reduce jaundice are required. Additionally, if the viral hepatitis is caused by hepatitis B or C, antiviral medications might be necessary. Only through active antiviral treatment can the damage to the liver by the virus be reduced, and thus better recovery of the patients can be achieved.