Liver diseases could be particularly problematic as they affect different functions of the body. There could be need for medical emergency in conditions where it results to complications. A number of conditions could affect hepatitis and thus cause liver inflammation. Hepatitis can be of various types depending on the causative agent. Viruses (caused by hepatitis A, B, C and E viruses), alcohol and NASH (Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) are the major causes of hepatitis. Risk factors vary depending on the type of hepatitis. Let us know about them in detail.
How is Hepatitis Caused?
Hepatitis A and E viruses cause acute hepatitis, and they are transmitted by consumption of contaminated food or water. We spoke to Dr. Surakshit TK - Consultant, Gastroenterology & Hepatobiliary Sciences, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute to help us understand risk factors that could lead a person to health adversities. Hepatitis B and C virus infection is acquired through contact with infected individual’s body fluids (blood and semen). It could be because of the following issues-
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- Unsafe sexual practices
- IV drug abuse
- sharing of needles
Risk Factors for Hepatitis
Some of the risk factors have been due to the cause of hepatitis that have been mentioned above. Now we will tell you about some more conditions that could possibly make you prone to hepatitis liver infection.
1. They are major risk factors for HBV and HCV infection. Apart for this, the HBV infection can also be transmitted from infected mother to the newborn during childbirth.
2. Heavy drinking and alcohol abuse are major risk factors for developing alcoholic hepatitis. This could be particularly dangerous in terms of prolonged health complications.
Also Read- Tips To Attain A Fissure Free Life
3. Diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome and some genetic factors are well-known risk factors for NASH which stands for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
4. Other rare forms include autoimmune and drug related hepatitis. Consumption of over-the-counter drugs or medications like steroids, Oral contraceptive pills, antibiotics and anti-epileptic drugs can also cause hepatitis.
5. Various autoimmune disorders like Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus), Sjogren’s syndrome are risk factors for developing autoimmune hepatitis.
A person’s health history might also affect the chances he or she will develop hepatitis. Health risk factors for hepatitis include not being vaccinated, having an acute or chronic infection, having an autoimmune disorder, and being born to a mother who is infected with hepatitis virus. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is similar to HAV in that it is spread through contaminated food or water (often because of poor sanitation).
It is more common in developing countries, where access to clean water is limited. Because many causes of hepatitis are found in a person’s surroundings, exposure to certain environmental factors can make you more likely to develop hepatitis over time. Environmental risk factors associated with hepatitis include unsafe water, contaminated syringes/ needles and lack of sanitation services. Likewise, some behaviors or activities can make it more likely you’ll be exposed to viruses, toxic chemicals or substances that cause hepatitis.
Also Read- Liver Diseases: 5 Risk Factors That Could Lead Towards Health Severities
How to Prevent Hepatitis Infection?
One of the best ways to prevent hepatitis is to get vaccinated by the vaccines available. Especially against hepatitis B infection, vaccine is the only way to reduce infection risk. This liver disease could be otherwise very dangerous. Hepatitis B vaccine are actually inexpensive, safe and very effective. So, there is no way to avoid it and it should be mandatory, especially for kids it could be really beneficial for them. They protect against hepatitis B, 95% or more people should get healthy infants, children and young adults.
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