Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It may be caused by viruses, medications, or toxic agents. There are at least five forms of viral hepatitis – hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Other types of hepatitis include alcoholic hepatitis, toxic/drug induced hepatitis, granulomatous hepatitis and an autoimmune form. The symptoms of hepatitis depend on the type. In the acute stage, symptoms may include a mild fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, slight abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. In the worse stages, symptoms may include jaundice, dark urine, light stools, itching, enlarged spleen, hives, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and circulation problems. Depending on the type, treatment options include no intake of recreational drugs or alcohol, rest, a medication called interferon, corticosteroids, a high protein or high carbohydrate diet, Ayurveda, homoeopathy, herbal remedies, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. There are vaccinations available to prevent against certain types of hepatitis.

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