Track 3: Hepatitis
Hepatitis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the liver. Liver inflammation can be caused by several viruses (viral hepatitis), chemicals, drugs, alcohol, certain genetic disorders or by an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks the liver, called autoimmune hepatitis. Here's a brief overview of each type : 1. Hepatitis A ( HAV ): Hepatitis A is usually spread by consuming food or water contaminated with fecal matter containing the hepatitis A virus. It typically causes an acute illness, and symptoms may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Hepatitis A is preventable through vaccination and good hygiene practices. 2. Hepatitis B ( HBV ): Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. It can be acute or chronic. Many people with chronic hepatitis B may not have symptoms f