Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver, commonly caused by viral infections (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E), though it can also result from excessive alcohol use, medications, or autoimmune diseases. In India, viral hepatitis is a significant public health concern, with Hepatitis B and C affecting millions.

It is estimated that around 40 million people in India live with chronic Hepatitis B, while approximately 12 million are infected with Hepatitis C. Management of hepatitis involves antiviral medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring of liver function.

Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications like liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. If you experience symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Hepatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, each leading to liver inflammation and damage. Below are some of the common causes:

1. Viral Infections

• Hepatitis A Virus (HAV): Transmitted primarily through contaminated food or water, Hepatitis A is an acute, short-term infection. Poor sanitation and hygiene practices are major contributors to its spread.
• Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Spread through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, or saliva. It can be transmitted via unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. Hepatitis B can become chronic, leading to long-term liver damage.
• Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Mainly spread through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles or poorly sterilised medical equipment. Hepatitis C is often chronic and can lead to serious liver complications if left untreated.
• Hepatitis D Virus (HDV): Only occurs in people who are already infected with Hepatitis B, as it requires the Hepatitis B virus to replicate. HDV is spread through contact with infected blood.
• Hepatitis E Virus (HEV): Typically spread through the consumption of contaminated water. It is more common in regions with poor sanitation and is usually an acute, self-limiting infection.

2. Alcohol Use: Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic hepatitis, where the liver becomes inflamed and damaged due to the toxic effects of alcohol. This can progress to cirrhosis or liver failure if drinking continues.

3.Medications and Toxins

• Drug-Induced Hepatitis: Certain medications, including over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen, and prescription medications like certain antibiotics and statins, can cause liver inflammation as a side effect.
• Exposure to Toxins: Inhalation or ingestion of toxic substances, such as industrial chemicals, can also lead to hepatitis.

4. Autoimmune Hepatitis:
This occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells, leading to chronic inflammation and liver damage. The exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis is unclear, but genetic and environmental factors may play a role.

5. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):
Often associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, NAFLD can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a type of hepatitis where fat buildup in the liver causes inflammation and damage.

6. Inherited Liver Diseases:Conditions like Wilson’s disease and hemochromatosis can lead to hepatitis due to the accumulation of copper or iron in the liver, respectively.

7. Secondary Hepatitis: Hepatitis can also occur as a result of other infections or diseases that affect the liver indirectly, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Hepatitis symptoms can vary based on the type and stage of the disease, but here are six common symptoms:

1. Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness and general weakness are often among the first symptoms of hepatitis, affecting daily activities and overall energy levels.

2. Jaundice: A key indicator of hepatitis is jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels in the bloodstream.

3. Abdominal Pain and Discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located, is common. This pain can range from mild to severe.

4. Dark Urine and Pale Stools: Hepatitis can lead to dark, tea-coloured urine and pale, clay-coloured stools due to bilirubin buildup and impaired liver function.

5. Nausea and Loss of Appetite: Hepatitis often causes nausea and a reduced desire to eat, which can result in weight loss and decreased appetite.

6. Itchy Skin: Itching can occur due to the accumulation of bile salts in the bloodstream, a common symptom in various types of hepatitis.

These symptoms can help in identifying hepatitis early, but some individuals, particularly with chronic hepatitis, may not exhibit symptoms until significant liver damage occurs.