Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infections can occur only in those who are infected with HBV, in a process known as a super infection. The dual infection of HDV and HBV predictably may result in a more serious disease and worse outcome. This also means that Hepatitis B vaccines will provide protection from HDV infection.
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is mostly transmitted through consumption of contaminated water or food, just like hepatitis A virus. They’re also similar in that hepatitis E virus also doesn’t usually lead to chronic infections and even usually resolves on its own. However, pregnant women infected with the virus need close monitoring and care. Safe and effective vaccines to prevent HEV infection have been developed but are not widely available.
Having discussed the five viruses, it is high time we mentioned the other non infectious causes of hepatitis. Toxins which are harmful substances ingested into the body can cause hepatitis. This is because the liver plays the role of detoxification in the body. Top of the list of toxins is alcohol. It is needless to say that excessive alcohol consumption is very dangerous. Alcohol directly injures the cells of the liver causing liver damage and inflammation (Alcoholic hepatitis). Other toxins include exposure to poisons and overdose of medication, especially that of acetaminophen commonly known as paracetamol. Overdose is usually fatal in just a few hours. It is also advised that local herbs are taken with extreme caution.
Autoimmune hepatitis is as a result of over activation of the immune defenses against the liver causing inflammation that may range from mild to severe causing impairment in liver function. It has been found to be 3 times more common in females than males.
All forms of chronic hepatitis eventually lead to liver failure if adequate care is not mounted promptly. Liver failure results in complications such as:
- Bleeding disorders because the liver is responsible for production of proteins that aid in blood clotting.
- A buildup of fluid in your abdomen, known as ascites.
- Increased blood pressure in portal veins that enter your liver, known as portal hypertension.
- kidney failure
- Hepatic encephalopathy, which can involve fatigue, memory loss, and diminished mental abilities due to the buildup of toxins, like ammonia that affect brain function.
- Hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a form of liver cancer and eventually death as a result of all these complications.
It is hoped that appropriate awareness about hepatitis will help to reduce its prevalence in our society.
Stay healthy!
Reference: www.who.int
