Prevention From Hepatitis

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Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viruses (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E). It can also result from alcohol, drugs, toxins, or autoimmune diseases. Viral hepatitis, especially B and C, can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The good news is most forms of hepatitis can be prevented with proper care and lifestyle measures.

Types of Viral Hepatitis & How They Spread

Type Mode of Transmission Preventable by Vaccine
Hepatitis A Contaminated food/water, poor hygiene ✔ Yes
Hepatitis B Blood, sexual contact, shared needles, mother-to-child ✔ Yes
Hepatitis C Blood-to-blood, unsterile injections, transfusions ❌ No
Hepatitis D Occurs only in presence of Hepatitis B ❌ No (Prevent by HBV vaccine)
Hepatitis E Contaminated water & poor sanitation ❌ No (except pregnancy risk)

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

  • Yellowing of skin & eyes (jaundice)

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting

  • Abdominal pain and swelling

  • Dark urine, pale stools

  • Fever and joint pain

Many people with Hepatitis B & C may have no symptoms until advanced liver damage occurs—making screening and prevention crucial.

 

Prevention Tips for Hepatitis

1. Get Vaccinated

  • Hepatitis A & B vaccines are safe and highly effective.

  • Infants, healthcare workers, travelers, and those with liver disease should be vaccinated.

2. Practice Safe Hygiene

  • Wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet.

  • Drink clean, filtered, or boiled water.

  • Avoid street food and raw/uncooked meat, especially during outbreaks.

2. Practice Safe Hygiene

  • Wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet.

  • Drink clean, filtered, or boiled water.

  • Avoid street food and raw/uncooked meat, especially during outbreaks.

3. Safe Sexual Practices

  • Use condoms during intercourse.

  • Avoid multiple sexual partners.

  • Get tested with your partner if at risk.

4. Avoid Sharing Needles or Personal Items

  • Never share razors, toothbrushes, nail cutters, or syringes.

  • Ensure tattooing, piercing, or salon equipment is properly sterilized.

5. Safe Blood Transfusion Practices

  • Ensure blood is screened before transfusion.

  • Choose trusted medical facilities.

6. Avoid Excessive Alcohol & Drugs

  • Alcohol worsens liver inflammation and accelerates liver damage.

  • Avoid self-medication and liver-toxic painkillers (e.g., high doses of paracetamol).

7. Regular Screening

  • People at risk should test for Hepatitis B & C.

  • Early detection prevents complications and enables treatment.

Special Prevention Tips for Pregnant Women

  • Screening for Hepatitis B during pregnancy.

  • Newborns of positive mothers should receive HBV vaccine + HBIG within 12 hours of birth.

  • Avoid unsafe water (risk of Hepatitis E).

Healthy Lifestyle for Liver Protection

  • Eat antioxidant-rich foods (beetroot, carrot, citrus fruits, turmeric).

  • Maintain healthy weight and exercise regularly.

  • Reduce fried and fatty foods.

Conclusion

Hepatitis is largely preventable through vaccination, hygiene, safe lifestyle practices, and awareness. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can save lives and protect the liver from irreversible damage.

Prevention is the key to protecting yourself and your family from hepatitis

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