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Hepatitis

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver caused by one or more of several viruses such as hepatitis A through E. Questions about diagnosis, symptoms, causes, transmission, treatments and prevention can be found here.

500 Questions

How many liver cancer patients show evidence of hepatitis infection?

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Asked by GaleEncyofMedicine

Hepatitis infections, particularly chronic infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), are significant risk factors for the development of liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis infections can lead to inflammation and damage to the liver over time, increasing the likelihood of liver cancer.

The relationship between hepatitis and liver cancer is well-established:

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Chronic infection with HBV is a major risk factor for liver cancer. Individuals with chronic HBV infection have a higher risk of developing liver cirrhosis, which can progress to liver cancer. Hepatitis B vaccination is a preventive measure to reduce the risk of HBV-related liver cancer.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Chronic infection with HCV is another significant risk factor for liver cancer. Similar to HBV, chronic HCV infection can lead to liver cirrhosis and increase the risk of liver cancer. Antiviral medications are available to treat chronic HCV infection and may reduce the risk of liver cancer in some cases.

The prevalence of hepatitis infection in liver cancer patients can vary depending on geographic regions, as the prevalence of hepatitis infections is not uniform worldwide. In areas with high rates of hepatitis infections, a substantial proportion of liver cancer cases may be attributed to chronic hepatitis.

What are the long term affects of hepatitis?

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Asked by Wiki User

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, and the long-term effects can vary based on the type of hepatitis and its progression. There are several types of viral hepatitis, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each caused by different viruses. Here are the potential long-term effects of chronic viral hepatitis, focusing on hepatitis B and C:

Chronic Hepatitis:

Hepatitis B and C, in particular, can become chronic infections. Chronic hepatitis can lead to ongoing inflammation in the liver, which may result in liver damage over time.

Liver Cirrhosis:

Prolonged inflammation in the liver can lead to the development of cirrhosis, a condition characterized by the scarring of liver tissue. Cirrhosis can impair liver function and may lead to complications such as portal hypertension, ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen), and an increased risk of liver cancer.

Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma):

Chronic hepatitis, especially hepatitis B and C, increases the risk of developing liver cancer. Cirrhosis is a significant risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Regular monitoring and early detection are crucial for managing this increased risk.

Liver Failure:

In severe cases, chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis can progress to liver failure, where the liver is unable to perform its essential functions. This can be life-threatening and may require a liver transplant.

Extrahepatic Manifestations:

Chronic viral hepatitis can sometimes lead to complications outside the liver, affecting other organs and systems. For example, hepatitis B is associated with certain kidney conditions, while hepatitis C has been linked to conditions such as cryoglobulinemia.

Fatigue and Reduced Quality of Life:

Chronic viral hepatitis can cause persistent fatigue and a reduced quality of life. Ongoing symptoms and the need for long-term management may impact daily activities and overall well-being.

What is the mode of transmission of hepatitis?

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Asked by Wiki User

My long time partner, heterosexual, of 27 years has been having a 5 year affair with a co-worker whose husband is HVC positive from kidney dialysis. He does not know if the girlfriend has been tested or if she is intimate with her husband or others. We have been intimate since I did not have knowledge of the affair until two months ago. The affair is on going. Should he be tested for the virus?

What does hep mean?

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Asked by Wiki User

It is hydroeletric power.

Does hepatitis b have cure?

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Asked by Wiki User

Yes, Chronic hepatitis B may eventually cause liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, a fatal disease with very poor response to current chemotherapy. The infection is preventable by vaccination.

What should you do if you came in contact with someone who has Hepatitis A?

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Asked by Wiki User

If you believe you've contracted Hepatitis A and are experiencing the symptoms - fatigue, fever, nausia, abdominal cramps, jaundice, etc. - you should see a doctor immediately. Hepatitis attacks the liver, which causes the yellowing of your eyes and skin.

Which virus is transmitted by the fecal oral route?

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Asked by Wiki User

Hepatitis A, which is caused by the H.A.V. virus, is transmitted by contaminated food and water, and prevented by the hepatitis A vaccine.

Can you get hepatitis c from a needle stick?

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Asked by Wiki User

One said "I DID in 1976 at fort Lenard wood Mo"

A differing view is that The flu shot doesnt give you Hepatitus C but it does agrivate those who already have itt and makes it worse, which some might mistake for causing the disease...

What happens when you have hepatitis?

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Asked by Wiki User

You die.

and how do you know that. person who left this?

What are the symptoms of alcoholic hepatitis?

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Asked by Wiki User

Dangers of Black Cohosh as HRT

Popular Herb Linked to Liver Disease

By Charlene Laino

WebMD Medical News Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD

on Friday, October 17, 2003

 

Oct 17, 2003 (BALTIMORE) - Black Cohosh, an herbal remedy gaining popularity as a panacea for the hot flashes, mood swings, and other symptoms of menopause, can cause the body's immune system to launch an attack on the liver, doctors warn, Stanley M, Cohan, MD, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Chicago, tells WebMD that he and colleagues have diagnosed what they believe is the first case of autoimmune hepatitis caused by the use of black cohosh. A progressive inflammation of the liver caused by the body's immune system attack on liver cells--- autoimmune hepatitis can cause people to become so tired that even crossing the

room is a chore. Some patients complain of abdominal discomfort, others of achy joints and itching. The skin may become yellow and the liver can become enlarged. Without proper treatment, this serious illness progresses and most people eventually die. The disease is thought to have some genetic link, with women accounting for as many as 70% of the patients. Fortunately, with prompt diagnosis and therapy, most people, including his patients, recover, Cohen says, "If you're taking black cohosh, ask your doctor for liver function tests," he says. His patient had been taking the herb for only a few weeks when symptoms developed. "Black cohosh has the potential for serious side effects," Cohen says. A search of the medical literature revealed five reports of other liver problems associated with the use of black cohosh, he says. Eamonn Quigley, MD, of the department of medicine at Cork University Hospital in Cork, Ireland,.

says that several studies show high use of herbal products among patients with liver disease. "Many (people) have made the assumption that herbal remedies are innocuous, but we now know they are not." he says. The doctors spoke with WebMD at the 68th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology this week. Dr Cohen says that the use of black cohosh has increased since last year, when the large Women's Health Initiative study demonstrated that use of estrogen was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and heart problems. That led the nation's top doctors to conclude that for many patients the benefits of hormone replacement therapy don't outweigh the risks. "Since then, women have been

looking for other products that can relieve menopausal symptoms," Dr, Cohen said, "and one of the most popular is black cohosh," known scientifically as Aciea racemosa. Catherine Ulbright, PharmD, RPh, founder and editor of the Natural Standard Research Collaboration, which collects data on complementary therapies, says several studies have reported black cohosh to improve menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, mooddisturbances, palpitations, and vaginal dryness, for up to six months, "But although these initial studies are suggestive, they have been few in number and have universally suffered from weaknesses," says Dr. Ulbright, who is also a senior attending pharmacist at Massachusetts Genera! Hospital in Boston. Also, there have been no studies looking at whether the herb is safe and effective over the long-term, she says. Dr. Cohen says his team i came to the conclusion that their patient , a 57-year-old woman, suffered from black cohosh-induced autoimmune hepatitis after exhaustive examination. The woman, who came in complaining of increasing fatigue and lethargy over the past two weeks, had recently stopped hormone replacement therapy at the advice of her primary physician. She started taking black cohosh three weeks prior to feeling ill, he says. Liver function tests and a liver biopsy revealed abnormalities that are consistent with a diagnosis of drug-induced autoimmune hepatitis, Dr. Cohen says. The woman was told to stop taking the herb and was treated with prescribed steroids. She felt completely better just two weeks later, and liver function tests were back to normal in about nine weeks.

How long can the hep b virus stay alive on an inanimate object?

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Asked by Wiki User

It can be infectious for about a week,

Can hepatitis be contagious?

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Asked by Wiki User

Yes. The Hepatitis C virus can be circulating in the blood. There are times when the virus may not be at very high levels, which reduces the risk, but usually the viral levels are detectable. Most HCV infections occur due to contact with someone in the chronic phase.

Can you get hepatitis c from someone with hepatitis c?

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Asked by Wiki User

Yes if you share blood or bodily fluids with the infected person. You can also get it without another person. For instance if you are an intervenes drug user and re-use old needles you can get it from your own blood left in the needle that has brown bacteria.

mostly given and passed thru blood to blood ,,body fluids is veryyy low,,has to be blood to blood,,,

What is juandice?

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Asked by Wiki User

Retention of bile in the body - causing a yellowish color to the skin.

Usually caused by some form of liver failure.

Hepatitis b patients saliva is also dangerous like patients blood?

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Asked by Wiki User

The hepatitis B virus can be present in an infected persons' saliva. However, it does not appear to be the case that this means an infected patients' saliva is also dangerous, like their blood is.

Why Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

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Asked by Wiki User

To keep from getting hepatitis A

- it is a liver disease from drinking contaminated water/ eating contaminated food.

you should get this shot to decrease the risk of being contaminated (your food may become contaminated but it will prevent you from getting the disease

Can hepatitis be treated?

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Asked by Wiki User

There are no specific medicines to cure infection with hepatitis A. Most people require no treatment except to relieve symptoms. If you have been exposed to someone who is infected with HAV, there is a treatment that may prevent you from becoming infected. It is called immune globulin and is more likely to be effective when given within 2 weeks of exposure.

Acute hepatitis B usually goes away by itself and does not require medical treatment. If very severe, symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea may require treatment to restore fluids and electrolytes. There are no medications that can prevent acute hepatitis B from becoming chronic. If you have chronic hepatitis B, you should see your health care provider regularly.

Hepatitis C infection is treated with antiviral medications intended to clear the virus from your body. Your doctor may recommend a combination of medications taken over several weeks. Once you complete a course of treatment, your doctor will test your blood for HCV. If HCV is still present, your doctor may recommend a second round of treatment. Antiviral medications can cause depression and flu-like signs and symptoms, such as fatigue, fever and headache. Some side effects can be serious enough that treatment must be delayed or stopped in certain cases.

How much does a Hepatitis B blood test cost?

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Asked by Wiki User

$200 per shot

Which does not spread hepatitis c infection?

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Asked by Wiki User

sharing food

Can a person with hepatitis b infect family?

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Asked by Wiki User

I'm pretty sure they're not contagious but they can pass the disease onto their children if they have any. My older brother is a carrier of tuberculosis but doesn't have any symptoms of it himself and isn't contagious.

Possibility of getting hepatitis b after vaccination?

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Asked by Wiki User

If a person is infected with Hepatitis B, the vaccine will have no effect. The vaccine contains proteins from the virus, and these are already present in the person's body, and the immune system has already responded to them.