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Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Viral hepatitis (types A, B, C, D and E) is the commonest cause. Some types are short-lived; others can become long-term.
Causes & risk factors
- Hepatitis A and E — from contaminated food or water
- Hepatitis B and C — through blood, unsafe injections or from mother to baby
- Sharing needles or unsterile procedures
- Unprotected sex (hepatitis B)
- Alcohol and some medicines can also inflame the liver
Common symptoms
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
- Tiredness
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Discomfort in the upper right tummy
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Mild fever
Tests & diagnosis
- LFT
- Hepatitis B (HBsAg)
- Hepatitis A, C and E antibody tests
- Bilirubin
- Liver ultrasound
Treatment & management
- Hepatitis A and E usually settle with rest, fluids and good nutrition
- Hepatitis C is now curable with modern antiviral tablets
- Hepatitis B may need long-term antiviral medicine
- Avoid alcohol and unnecessary medicines that stress the liver
- Vaccination prevents hepatitis A and B
When to see a doctor urgently
- Yellow eyes or skin with dark urine
- Persistent vomiting or being unable to keep fluids down
- Confusion, drowsiness or easy bruising
- Severe tummy pain or swelling
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about viral hepatitis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is hepatitis contagious?
Some types are. Hepatitis A and E spread through contaminated food or water; B and C spread through blood and body fluids. Vaccines and hygiene reduce the risk.
Can hepatitis be prevented?
Yes — vaccines protect against A and B, and safe food, clean water, sterile needles and safe blood transfusions prevent the others.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.