Approximately 500 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B or C. And yet, awareness about this potentially life-threatening virus is so low that the majority of those infected do not even know they have it.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, or a liver infection caused by a number of viruses or toxins. Hepatitis A, B and C are the most common of the six hepatitis viruses while the B and C strains are viewed the most dangerous. Both hepatitis B and C viruses can have a major impact on your health leading to liver scarring (cirrhosis, liver cancer or liver failure). Approximately one million people die from these two hepatitis strains every year.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is one of the most common viral infections in the world and is 50 to a 100 times more infectious than HIV. It is found in the bodily fluids such as blood, semen, sweat, tears and breast milk of infected people, which is why it is easily transmitted to newborn babies. It can be spread by the use of unsterilised tattoo and body piercing instruments.
Not all people will have signs of infection but symptoms can typically include nausea, fatigue, yellowing of the skin, stomach ache, diarrhoea and aching joints. There is a vaccine available that should ideally form part of the childhood vaccination programme. Those who are not vaccinated should remember that it is never too late.
Hepatitis B is diagnosed by a simple blood test and further tests may be carried out to determine the severity of the infection, liver inflammation and extent of the damage to the liver. Most people with acute hepatitis B do not need treatment and do not develop long-term liver damage. However, if the virus becomes chronic, treatment with antiviral medication will be required to prevent further damage.
Hepatitis C
Just like hepatitis B, people can live with the hepatitis C virus for many years before symptoms appear. During this time the infected person can spread the virus to others. Hepatitis C is mainly spread through blood-to-blood contact.
Symptoms include: nausea, fatigue, aching muscles and joints, anxiety and depression, poor concentration, stomach ache and loss of appetite. There is no vaccination against hepatitis C but you can safeguard yourself against it by leading a healthy, responsible lifestyle.
Hepatitis C is not treated unless it becomes chronic and then it is treated with medicine that slows or stops the virus from damaging the liver. Should there be extensive damage to the liver upon diagnosis, you may have to undergo a liver transplant.
It is recommended that you visit your doctor should you have any of the symptoms mentioned. Should you be faced with a healthcare concern such as hepatitis, GEMS will be there to assist you, especially in times of crisis when you need healthcare assistance urgently. By remaining well informed and by taking charge of your health you can go a long way towards avoiding serious illnesses, which will prevent you from working towards your dreams and spending time with those you love.
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