Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. It is common worldwide. Many illnesses and conditions can cause inflammation of the liver, for example, drugs, alcohol, chemicals, and autoimmune diseases. The most common etiology of acute hepatitis is viral infection. In North America, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C are the commonest causes of viral hepatitis. Viral hepatitis occurs less commonly with infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, herpes simplex and Coxsackie virus. There are several hepatitis viruses; they have been named types A, B, C, D, E, F (not confirmed), and G. Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A can affect anyone. In the United States, hepatitis A can occur in situations ranging from isolated cases.

Hepatitis B is a serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the liver. The virus, which is called hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is creat in the blood of persons who have the disease. HCV is spread by contact with the blood of an infected person. Hepatitis D is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV), a defective virus that needs the hepatitis B virus to exist. Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is found in the blood of persons infected with the virus. Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV) transmitted in much the same way as hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis E, however, does not occur often in the United States. The first symptoms noticed by most patients are often tiredness, weakness, muscle pains and headaches.

Diet can be liberal, encouraging a high calorie intake but excluding alcohol. Fatty foods are poorly indulge and are best avoided. Hospitalization is not necessary. Vaccines, given by injection into muscle, are available to prevent hepatitis A, B, and E infections. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all children and for adults likely to be exposed to the virus. Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for everyone. Hepatitis E vaccine, a new vaccine, will most likely be used in endemic areas. Other preventive measures against infection with the hepatitis viruses can be taken include washing hands thoroughly before handling food ,not sharing needles to inject drugs ,not sharing toothbrushes, razors, or other items that could get blood on them ,practicing safe sex—using barrier protection such as a condom.

Viral Hepatitis Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Alpha-interferon may be useful in acute hepatitis C.

2. Pooled gamma globulin may reduce post-transfusion hepatitis C.

3. Vaccination for hepatitis B is also protective against hepatitis D.

4. Fatty foods are poorly tolerated and are best avoided.

5. Alternative is suppression of the virus with oral medications, such as lamivudine and adefovir.

6. Taking precautions to prevent exposure to another individual's blood (exposure to dirty needles).

7. Liver transplant may be an option for people whose hepatitis progresses to liver failure.