Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Diseases Explained

Viral Hepatitis: This is the inflammation and necrosis of the liver caused by a virus or group of viruses. Honeywillteam There are other types of hepatitis including hepatotoxic and drugs related hepatitis and alcoholic hepatitis. Types of Viral Hepatitis There are many types of viral hepatitis. Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E and G est. HEPATITIS B: It is caused by the Hepatitis B virus. A DNA headman virus with a partially double-stranded DNA genome. HEPATITIS C: This is a serious and often-silent liver infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus – a single stranded RNA virus. At least six major genotypes have been identified. For example, via contaminated needles (including unsterilized tattoo needles), accidental needle-sticks in healthcare workers, and unprotected sex, sharing nail clippers, razors, or toothbrushesHoneywillteam

It can also be present in saliva, semen and vaginal secretions and through HbsAg positive mothers to child (maternal-neonatal transmission). Hepatitis B is prevalent in homosexuals and intravenous drug users but most cases result from heterosexual transmission. The incubation period of hepatitis B is 6 weeks to 6 months (average of 12 – 14 weeks). That of Hepatitis C is between 6-7 weeks and clinical illness is often mild, usually asymptomatic. Hepatitis C has been called “the silent killer” because the virus often hides in the body for years, escaping detection as it attacks the liver. Since most people don’t have warning signs of hepatitis C (or don’t know how or when they were infected).

They don’t seek treatment until many years later. By the time hepatitis C symptoms appear or a diagnosis is made, the damage often is well underway. If symptoms do appear, they may be mild or severe. Among the most common complaints are:

ACUTE HEPATITIS as the name implies means the illness is sudden and short-lived, occurring within the first two weeks to six months of infection.