Hepatitis, with jaundice

Christopher Hobbs:

“Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver associated with viral infection, toxic substances, or an autoimmune condition. There are several types currently recognized, and more may be added in the future. Symptoms include jaundice or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Jaundice results when excess amounts of the bile pigment bilirubin circulate in the blood stream, causing a yellowish appearance of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Hepatitis comes in three types. Type A, or infectious hepatitis, often occurs after infection from food or drink. Type B, serum hepatitis, most often occurs after exposure to infected blood through contaminated needles. Type C, formerly called non-A, non-B hepatitis is being more widely diagnosed in recent years. The symptoms of hepatitis C are often less clear-cut and can best be diagnosed by laboratory tests. If you have or suspect hepatitis, you must consult with your health care practitioner.”

Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Hepatitis

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can be caused by several factors:

1. Infections:
   • Viral infections are the most common cause, including Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.
   • Other infections like Epstein-Barr virus or cytomegalovirus can also lead to hepatitis.
2. Alcohol:
   • Chronic alcohol abuse can result in alcoholic hepatitis, a form of liver inflammation.
3. Medications and Toxins:
   • Overuse of medications like acetaminophen or exposure to toxins like industrial chemicals can damage the liver.
4. Autoimmune Disorders:
   • Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the immune system attacks liver cells.
5. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):
   • Fat buildup in the liver due to obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome can cause inflammation.
6. Genetic and Metabolic Conditions:
   • Conditions like Wilson’s disease or hemochromatosis can lead to hepatitis.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice the following symptoms:

• Severe Symptoms: Jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), dark urine, pale stool, or severe fatigue.
• Abdominal Pain: Especially in the upper right side of the abdomen.
• Confusion or Mental Changes: Could indicate liver failure.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent or worsening symptoms.
• Bleeding or Bruising Easily: Suggests liver dysfunction.
• Fever with Jaundice: Could indicate infection or severe inflammation.