5 Most Common Types of Hepatitis to Avoid at All Costs and How

There are five types of hepatitis. Among these types, hepatitis A, B, and C are the most prevalent in the United States. While all these types impact the liver, they share similar symptoms but require distinct treatment approaches.

Hepatitis is liver inflammation, which can arise from viruses, chemicals, drugs, alcohol, genetics, or an overactive immune system (autoimmune hepatitis). It can be either acute, with sudden onset and resolution, or chronic, leading to gradual liver damage with milder, long-lasting symptoms.

The Different Types of Hepatitis and Their Causes

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in their recent report, approximately 354 million people worldwide are currently living with and suffering from chronic hepatitis B and C.

There are five primary viral classifications of hepatitis — A, B, C, D, and E. A distinct virus causes each type of viral hepatitis.

1. Hepatitis A

This disease is highly contagious, with short-term liver infections resulting from the hepatitis A virus. Those affected may experience illness for a few weeks to several months but typically recover fully without enduring lasting liver damage. 

In rare instances, hepatitis A can lead to liver failure. In more common cases, this type of hepatitis affects the elderly, especially those with underlying health conditions, such as chronic liver disease. 

Since the hepatitis A vaccine was initially recommended in 1996, there has been a significant decrease in hepatitis A cases in the United States. 

However, in recent years, the number of infections has been on the rise due to multiple outbreaks resulting from person-to-person contact, especially among individuals who use drugs, those experiencing homelessness, and men who have sex with men.

The treatment for hepatitis A typically involves rest, proper nutrition, and staying well-hydrated. In severe cases, individuals with pronounced symptoms may require hospitalization for medical care.

2. Hepatitis B 

Hepatitis B is a liver infection resulting from the hepatitis B virus.  There are two types of hepatitis B. 

While some individuals with this condition experience only a short-term illness, referred to as an "acute" infection, for others, the condition can develop into a severe, lifelong ailment called chronic hepatitis B.

Acute hepatitis B is a brief illness that manifests within the initial six months after exposure to the hepatitis B virus. 

Some individuals with acute hepatitis B may exhibit no symptoms or only experience mild illness, while others may develop a more severe form of the disease that necessitates hospitalization.

Specific individuals, particularly those infected with hepatitis B as adults, can clear the virus from their bodies without the need for treatment. It may not be the worst type of hepatitis, but acute hepatitis B can progress to a persistent, lifelong infection referred to as chronic hepatitis B. 

Over time, chronic hepatitis B may result in significant health issues, including liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and, in some cases, even death.

No specific medication is available to treat acute hepatitis B. For individuals with mild symptoms, healthcare providers typically advise rest, proper nutrition, and staying well-hydrated. 

In cases of more severe symptoms, hospitalization may be necessary for appropriate medical care.

3. Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a liver inflammation resulting from the hepatitis C virus. This virus can lead to both acute and chronic hepatitis, making it the most serious type of hepatitis. With the severity varying from a mild illness to a severe, lifelong condition that may include liver cirrhosis and cancer.

Globally, it is estimated that around 58 million people have chronic hepatitis C virus infections, and approximately 1.5 million new infections occur annually. Additionally, there are an estimated 3.2 million adolescents and children living with chronic hepatitis C infections.

Hepatitis C is treated with antiviral medications, which are designed to eliminate the virus from the body.  In cases of severe liver damage resulting from chronic hepatitis C infection, a liver transplant may be considered as an option for treatment.

4. Hepatitis D

This type of hepatitis is caused by hepatitis D virus (HDV). It’s a virus that relies on the presence of hepatitis B (HBV) for its replication. Globally, HDV affects nearly 5% of individuals with a chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.

Diagnosing hepatitis D can be challenging since cases of hepatitis D do not exhibit distinctive clinical symptoms that set them apart from other types of acute viral hepatitis. To confirm a diagnosis, testing for the presence of antibodies against HDV and HDV RNA is necessary. 

It's essential to consider the possibility of HDV infection in individuals who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and display severe symptoms of hepatitis or acute exacerbations.

5. Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E may not be the worst type of hepatitis, but it’s a liver disease induced by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). While it is uncommon in developed nations, hepatitis E is prevalent in the developing world. 

For the vast majority of individuals, hepatitis E virus infection leads to a self-limiting, acute illness. In rare instances, acute infection can progress to a chronic condition, primarily observed in people who have undergone solid organ transplants.

In the majority of cases, this type of hepatitis typically resolves on its own within approximately 4-6 weeks. To alleviate symptoms, get plenty of rest, maintain a healthy diet, and stay well-hydrated by drinking lots of water. 

If you're pregnant, your doctor may monitor you in the hospital. In severe cases, you may receive medication to combat the infection.

Be Hepa-Free With the Right Medical Guidance

Protect your health and be hepa-free with OSRA Medical! Hepatitis is a serious concern, but with the proper medical guidance, you can stay safe. 

Don't wait — get checked for all types of hepatitis today. For convenient and professional telemedicine services, contact OSRA Medical. Your health matters — take action now!