Hepatitis A
Usually spread through contaminated food or water
Hepatitis Symptoms
Causes, Signs & Treatment
Hepatitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the liver, most commonly due to viral infections such as hepatitis A, B, and C. It can also result from alcohol use, certain medications, or other medical conditions.
Many people with hepatitis may experience mild symptoms or none at all, especially in the early stages. Because of this, infections can go unnoticed while still causing damage to the liver over time.
Early detection and proper treatment are important to prevent complications and protect long-term health.
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, an organ essential for filtering toxins, aiding digestion, and storing nutrients. Viral hepatitis is the most common type and includes:
Usually spread through contaminated food or water
Transmitted through blood and bodily fluids
Primarily spread through infected blood
The condition can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting), depending on the type and severity.
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of hepatitis and may not always be noticeable.
Typical symptoms include:
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)
Dark urine
Pale or clay-coloured stools
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Fever (more common in acute infections)
Joint pain (in some cases)
Symptoms may appear weeks to months after exposure, particularly for hepatitis B and C.
The most common cause is infection with hepatitis viruses (A, B, or C), transmitted through contaminated food, blood, or bodily fluids.
Hepatitis B can be spread through sexual contact with an infected person.
Sharing needles, unsafe medical procedures, or contact with contaminated blood increases risk, especially for hepatitis B and C.
Hepatitis A is often linked to consuming contaminated food or water or poor sanitation practices.
You should seek medical attention if you notice:
Even without symptoms, testing is recommended if there has been potential exposure.
Blood tests to detect hepatitis viruses
Liver function tests
Screening for multiple types of hepatitis
These tests help determine the type of hepatitis and the extent of liver involvement.
Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis:
Usually resolves on its own with supportive care such as rest, hydration, and proper nutrition.
May require antiviral medications and regular monitoring, especially in chronic cases.
Can be treated and often cured with antiviral medications.
If left untreated, hepatitis can lead to serious health problems, including:
Chronic liver disease
Liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
Liver failure
Liver cancer
Early treatment significantly reduces these risks.
Regular testing is important, especially for hepatitis B and C, which may not show symptoms.
You should get tested if you:
Have had unprotected sex
Have multiple sexual partners
Have been exposed to blood or shared needles
Notice any symptoms of liver disease
Have a partner diagnosed with hepatitis
Routine screening helps detect infection early and prevent complications.
Hepatitis can be silent but may lead to serious liver damage if untreated. Early testing and appropriate care are key to protecting your health and preventing transmission.
Visit Careplus Clinic for confidential screening, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment in a safe and professional environment.