Hepatitis: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Hepatitis Symptoms
Wondering if that ache or pain could mean hepatitis? Symptoms vary depending on the type of hepatitis, so it's hard to know if you have hepatitis without the help of a doctor. Most people don't realize they have hepatitis until they see jaundice, a symptom that makes the skin appear yellowish.
Wondering if that ache or pain could mean hepatitis? Symptoms vary depending on the type of hepatitis, so it's hard to know if you have hepatitis without the help of a doctor. Most people don't realize they have hepatitis until they see jaundice, a symptom that makes the skin appear yellowish.
Prevent Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus. It is spread only by direct contact with infected blood. This means that to be exposed to the hepatitis C virus, you have to somehow get blood infected with the virus in to your body. While this can happen in a number of different ways, here are six identified ways that it is possible to be exposed to hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus. It is spread only by direct contact with infected blood. This means that to be exposed to the hepatitis C virus, you have to somehow get blood infected with the virus in to your body. While this can happen in a number of different ways, here are six identified ways that it is possible to be exposed to hepatitis C.
Four Hepatitis Symptoms
Most diseases have their classic symptoms and hepatitis is no exception. Here is a list of symptoms and their descriptions that are frequently seen with hepatitis. Remember, though, that some people with the disease will not have any of these problems.
Most diseases have their classic symptoms and hepatitis is no exception. Here is a list of symptoms and their descriptions that are frequently seen with hepatitis. Remember, though, that some people with the disease will not have any of these problems.
Have you ever used injection drugs?
Injection drug use is the most common way that hepatitis C spreads in the United States. If you are using, or if you've ever used injection drugs (even just one time many years ago) then you should be tested for hepatitis C.
Injection drug use is the most common way that hepatitis C spreads in the United States. If you are using, or if you've ever used injection drugs (even just one time many years ago) then you should be tested for hepatitis C.
Liver Enzymes
Liver enzymes allow doctors to learn about the health of your liver. There are thousands of these enzymes in the liver and blood stream, but two of them--two aminotransferases--are especially useful for determining liver disease: AST and ALT.
Liver enzymes allow doctors to learn about the health of your liver. There are thousands of these enzymes in the liver and blood stream, but two of them--two aminotransferases--are especially useful for determining liver disease: AST and ALT.
List of Acute Symptoms
Symptoms of acute viral hepatitis are general and varied. Some people will have many of these, but others will have only several. Since the liver is used in many essential functions, the symptoms can seemingly affect many parts of the body, not just the liver. For this reason, symptoms of viral hepatitis are very broad.
Symptoms of acute viral hepatitis are general and varied. Some people will have many of these, but others will have only several. Since the liver is used in many essential functions, the symptoms can seemingly affect many parts of the body, not just the liver. For this reason, symptoms of viral hepatitis are very broad.
What's the Spleen? Here's an Ex-Spleen-ation
What's the Spleen? The spleen is an organ involved in the production and maintenance of red blood cells, the production of certain circulating white blood cells, as a part of the lymph system, and as a part of the immune system.
What's the Spleen? The spleen is an organ involved in the production and maintenance of red blood cells, the production of certain circulating white blood cells, as a part of the lymph system, and as a part of the immune system.
Hepatitis C Quiz
Do you understand the basics of hepatitis C? Take this short quiz to test your knowledge on all the essential hepatitis C information, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Do you understand the basics of hepatitis C? Take this short quiz to test your knowledge on all the essential hepatitis C information, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Cirrhosis and Diet
What is the best diet for cirrhosis? People with cirrhosis may need a special diet because of complications like ascites and hypoglycemia, but good advice is to eat a healthful diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proteins of proper types and in appropriate amounts.
What is the best diet for cirrhosis? People with cirrhosis may need a special diet because of complications like ascites and hypoglycemia, but good advice is to eat a healthful diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proteins of proper types and in appropriate amounts.
Hepatitis C Vaccine
Currently, hepatitis C has no effective vaccine approved for public use. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects at least 170 million people worldwide and about 4 million people in the United States. It is a big public health problem that needs an effective and cheap vaccine.
Currently, hepatitis C has no effective vaccine approved for public use. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects at least 170 million people worldwide and about 4 million people in the United States. It is a big public health problem that needs an effective and cheap vaccine.
How long can virus live?
Hepatitis viruses can live outside the body but each one varies depending on conditions. Read this frequently asked question about hepatitis exposure.
Hepatitis viruses can live outside the body but each one varies depending on conditions. Read this frequently asked question about hepatitis exposure.
Viral Hepatitis Symptoms
Wondering if that ache or pain could mean hepatitis? Symptoms of acute viral hepatitis are very similar, whether you have hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C, or other hepatitis viruses. It's hard to know which you have without the help of blood tests and a doctor. Most people don't realize they have hepatitis until they see jaundice, a symptom that makes the skin appear yellowish. However, many people don't develop jaundice.
Wondering if that ache or pain could mean hepatitis? Symptoms of acute viral hepatitis are very similar, whether you have hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C, or other hepatitis viruses. It's hard to know which you have without the help of blood tests and a doctor. Most people don't realize they have hepatitis until they see jaundice, a symptom that makes the skin appear yellowish. However, many people don't develop jaundice.
HCV Blood Tests
Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver. Doctors use blood tests to diagnose hepatitis C infection, determine the best course of treatment and monitor its progress. Three common types of hepatitis C blood tests are antibody tests, genotyping and hepatitis C RNA. This article discusses each of these.
Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver. Doctors use blood tests to diagnose hepatitis C infection, determine the best course of treatment and monitor its progress. Three common types of hepatitis C blood tests are antibody tests, genotyping and hepatitis C RNA. This article discusses each of these.
HBV Infection
Hepatitis B is a disease caused by the hepatitis B virus, and can be acute or chronic. Infection with hepatitis B virus is the leading cause of chronic hepatitis worldwide and people with chronic hepatitis B infection are at increased risk for developing liver cancer. In addition, the hepatitis B virus is the leading cause of cirrhosis in the world.
Hepatitis B is a disease caused by the hepatitis B virus, and can be acute or chronic. Infection with hepatitis B virus is the leading cause of chronic hepatitis worldwide and people with chronic hepatitis B infection are at increased risk for developing liver cancer. In addition, the hepatitis B virus is the leading cause of cirrhosis in the world.
Hepatitis Treatments
There are many treatments for hepatitis but which one your physician will use depends on the type of disease. This article describes some of the most common therapies.
There are many treatments for hepatitis but which one your physician will use depends on the type of disease. This article describes some of the most common therapies.
HBsAG
Definition of HBsAG.
Definition of HBsAG.
Overview
What is hepatitis? Learn the basics of hepatitis and understand the major symptoms, diagnostic testing and treatments associated with the disease.
What is hepatitis? Learn the basics of hepatitis and understand the major symptoms, diagnostic testing and treatments associated with the disease.
Ten Complications
Hepatitis can lead to other diseases. While some are rare, some complications, like fibrosis and cirrhosis, are very common. This article identifies some of the most encountered diseases most linked with hepatitis.
Hepatitis can lead to other diseases. While some are rare, some complications, like fibrosis and cirrhosis, are very common. This article identifies some of the most encountered diseases most linked with hepatitis.
Diagnosing Hepatitis
Doctors use several methods to help diagnose hepatitis. These include blood tests for enzymes and antibodies and more advanced testing like biopsy and magnetic resonance imaging.
Doctors use several methods to help diagnose hepatitis. These include blood tests for enzymes and antibodies and more advanced testing like biopsy and magnetic resonance imaging.
Ribavirin Side Effects
Ribavirin has many side effects. Here are the most common side effects when treating hepatitis C with ribavirin and interferon.
Ribavirin has many side effects. Here are the most common side effects when treating hepatitis C with ribavirin and interferon.
Viral Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a major cause of liver disease for almost 170 million people in the world and almost 4 million in the United States. The disease can be relatively simple for some, but for most it leads to a chronic condition of cirrhosis and other complications.
Hepatitis C is a major cause of liver disease for almost 170 million people in the world and almost 4 million in the United States. The disease can be relatively simple for some, but for most it leads to a chronic condition of cirrhosis and other complications.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a very contagious disease that's spread by a virus. However, there is good news. It's rarely fatal and doesn't cause chronic disease. Plus, if you have it once, you'll never get it again.
Hepatitis A is a very contagious disease that's spread by a virus. However, there is good news. It's rarely fatal and doesn't cause chronic disease. Plus, if you have it once, you'll never get it again.
Importance of Liver
The liver is absolutely crucial to life. Because it is responsible for so many vital functions, when the liver is damaged, your health is affected. Learn more about the functions that are affected by hepatitis.
The liver is absolutely crucial to life. Because it is responsible for so many vital functions, when the liver is damaged, your health is affected. Learn more about the functions that are affected by hepatitis.
Thymus, Where Art Thou?
The Thymus is where T-lymphocytes develop, which are essential white blood cells of the immune system.
The Thymus is where T-lymphocytes develop, which are essential white blood cells of the immune system.
Number of People Infected
Viral hepatitis is one of the most important causes of chronic liver disease in the United States and the world. Millions of people are at risk for its complications. Though sometimes it seems that doctors are losing "the war" against viral hepatitis, the actual numbers of people with viral hepatitis collected by health officials suggest otherwise.
Viral hepatitis is one of the most important causes of chronic liver disease in the United States and the world. Millions of people are at risk for its complications. Though sometimes it seems that doctors are losing "the war" against viral hepatitis, the actual numbers of people with viral hepatitis collected by health officials suggest otherwise.
Different HCV genotypes?
Each hepatitis C virus is actually one of 6 major genotypes and 50 subtypes. Which genotype you have determines how easily you respond to treatment.
Each hepatitis C virus is actually one of 6 major genotypes and 50 subtypes. Which genotype you have determines how easily you respond to treatment.
Cirrhosis Facts
Cirrhosis of the Liver is extensive scarring, often caused by alcoholism or viral hepatitis, that starts to interfere with normal liver functions. Here are answers to five common questions about cirrhosis and links to more information.
Cirrhosis of the Liver is extensive scarring, often caused by alcoholism or viral hepatitis, that starts to interfere with normal liver functions. Here are answers to five common questions about cirrhosis and links to more information.
Kissing and Hepatitis
As a rule, you can't catch viral hepatitis from a kiss. However, it's really all about your level of risk.
As a rule, you can't catch viral hepatitis from a kiss. However, it's really all about your level of risk.
What Is Ascites?
Ascites is extra fluid in the space between the tissues lining the abdomen and the organs in the abdominal cavity (such as the liver, spleen, stomach). However, it's easier to just think of ascites as the accumulation of excess fluid in the abdomen. This article is about its cause, diagnosis and treatment.
Ascites is extra fluid in the space between the tissues lining the abdomen and the organs in the abdominal cavity (such as the liver, spleen, stomach). However, it's easier to just think of ascites as the accumulation of excess fluid in the abdomen. This article is about its cause, diagnosis and treatment.
Metavir Score
The Metavir Score is a system to quantify the degree of inflammation and fibrosis of a liver biopsy. Here's what the numbers mean.
The Metavir Score is a system to quantify the degree of inflammation and fibrosis of a liver biopsy. Here's what the numbers mean.
Jaundice
Jaundice is yellowing of the skin and is a classic symptom of hepatitis. Not everyone with hepatitis will develop jaundice, and sometimes people won't recognize very mild cases.
Jaundice is yellowing of the skin and is a classic symptom of hepatitis. Not everyone with hepatitis will develop jaundice, and sometimes people won't recognize very mild cases.
Peginterferon
Peginterferon is a powerful antiviral drug treatment for chronic hepatitis B and C. Here is information on side effects, costs, effectiveness and warnings.
Peginterferon is a powerful antiviral drug treatment for chronic hepatitis B and C. Here is information on side effects, costs, effectiveness and warnings.
Hepatitis D
Hepatitis D, which is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV), is a disease that infects the liver. It's similar to the other hepatotropic viruses because it causes liver inflammation and produces similar symptoms, but HDV is unusual. It can only infect someone who has hepatitis B because it's a defective virus.
Hepatitis D, which is caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV), is a disease that infects the liver. It's similar to the other hepatotropic viruses because it causes liver inflammation and produces similar symptoms, but HDV is unusual. It can only infect someone who has hepatitis B because it's a defective virus.
Portal Hypertension
Portal hypertension is an important complication of liver disease. It's a type of high blood pressure that affects the portal veins leading from the intestines to the liver, instead of affecting the entire body. It's a significant complication of alcoholic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis, which often leads to ascites and varices.
Portal hypertension is an important complication of liver disease. It's a type of high blood pressure that affects the portal veins leading from the intestines to the liver, instead of affecting the entire body. It's a significant complication of alcoholic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis, which often leads to ascites and varices.
Side Effects from Pegasys
There are many side effects from treatment of chronic hepatitis with Pegasys. All drugs have side effects and this medication is a powerful treatment for chronic hepatitis. Here is a complete list of side effects.
There are many side effects from treatment of chronic hepatitis with Pegasys. All drugs have side effects and this medication is a powerful treatment for chronic hepatitis. Here is a complete list of side effects.
Chronic Hepatitis Nutrition
What should someone with chronic hepatitis eat? This is a common concern for people with chronic hepatitis and the answer may surprise you. There is no single recommended diet for people with hepatitis, just basic nutritional principles. With these principles, you and your physician can develop a diet that gives your body the nutrition it needs without putting additional stress on your liver.
What should someone with chronic hepatitis eat? This is a common concern for people with chronic hepatitis and the answer may surprise you. There is no single recommended diet for people with hepatitis, just basic nutritional principles. With these principles, you and your physician can develop a diet that gives your body the nutrition it needs without putting additional stress on your liver.
What Is Hepatitis E?
Hepatitis E is one of five viruses that have special preferences for the liver and causes acute viral hepatitis. As a disease it is self-limited, causes acute gastrointestinal illness, and is spread by the fecal-oral route. It's very similar to hepatitis A in how it is spread, but similar to all acute viral hepatitis infection in symptoms.
Hepatitis E is one of five viruses that have special preferences for the liver and causes acute viral hepatitis. As a disease it is self-limited, causes acute gastrointestinal illness, and is spread by the fecal-oral route. It's very similar to hepatitis A in how it is spread, but similar to all acute viral hepatitis infection in symptoms.
HBsAb
Definition of HBsAb anti-HBs
Definition of HBsAb anti-HBs
Ten Facts about HCV
Hepatitis C is a common cause of hepatitis and other complications. Here are 10 facts about hepatitis C that everyone needs to know.
Hepatitis C is a common cause of hepatitis and other complications. Here are 10 facts about hepatitis C that everyone needs to know.
Peginterferon Side Effects
Peginterferon has many side effects, but it's part of the best treatment available for hepatitis C. Here are the most common side effects from peginterferon treatment.
Peginterferon has many side effects, but it's part of the best treatment available for hepatitis C. Here are the most common side effects from peginterferon treatment.
Five Hepatitis Viruses
Viral hepatitis is a liver disease that is caused by exposure to one of the five hepatitis viruses. Each virus is named after a letter of the alphabet, hepatitis A through E. Though other viruses can cause hepatitis, only five are considered hepatitis viruses.
Viral hepatitis is a liver disease that is caused by exposure to one of the five hepatitis viruses. Each virus is named after a letter of the alphabet, hepatitis A through E. Though other viruses can cause hepatitis, only five are considered hepatitis viruses.
Treating Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C treatment with peginterferon and ribavirin delay or prevent complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer, but have powerful side effects and doesn't work well for some virus genotypes.
Hepatitis C treatment with peginterferon and ribavirin delay or prevent complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer, but have powerful side effects and doesn't work well for some virus genotypes.
Four Natural Remedies
Even though herbs, dietary supplements and homeopathic remedies don't require a prescription and are available in most health food stores, people should be cautious and suspicious of their value. Here are four natural treatments that people take to treat various forms of viral hepatitis. Unfortunately, there is no real evidence that they work.
Even though herbs, dietary supplements and homeopathic remedies don't require a prescription and are available in most health food stores, people should be cautious and suspicious of their value. Here are four natural treatments that people take to treat various forms of viral hepatitis. Unfortunately, there is no real evidence that they work.
Hepatitis C and Sex
Is hepatitis C spread by having sex? Yes, but it's not as easy as you think.
Is hepatitis C spread by having sex? Yes, but it's not as easy as you think.
Ribavirin
Ribavirin is a powerful antiviral drug treatment for hepatitis C. Here is information on side effects, cost, effectiveness and warnings.
Ribavirin is a powerful antiviral drug treatment for hepatitis C. Here is information on side effects, cost, effectiveness and warnings.
Hepatitis B and Sex
Is hepatitis B spread through sex? Absolutely! The virus is found in semen, vaginal fluids, and blood and is at least 50 times more infectious than HIV. Learn about how HBV spreads and how to prevent your infection.
Is hepatitis B spread through sex? Absolutely! The virus is found in semen, vaginal fluids, and blood and is at least 50 times more infectious than HIV. Learn about how HBV spreads and how to prevent your infection.
Preventing Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis is caused by viruses that infect the liver. Each of these viruses cause a different type of disease, but you can follow some basic strategies to protect yourself from most viral hepatitis infections.
Viral hepatitis is caused by viruses that infect the liver. Each of these viruses cause a different type of disease, but you can follow some basic strategies to protect yourself from most viral hepatitis infections.
Macrophages: Nature's Garbage Disposal
The immune system has mmaacrophages, which are cells capable of phagocytosis.
The immune system has mmaacrophages, which are cells capable of phagocytosis.
Sharing a glass contagious?
Can you get hepatitis C by drinking after someone who is infected? This is a question asked by lots of people. Fortunately, they don't have to worry much about this type of exposure.
Can you get hepatitis C by drinking after someone who is infected? This is a question asked by lots of people. Fortunately, they don't have to worry much about this type of exposure.
Lymphopenia
Definition of Lymphopenia
Definition of Lymphopenia
Lymph Nodes: Filter Stations for Lymph
Lymph nodes contain large amounts of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells that attack microbes.
Lymph nodes contain large amounts of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells that attack microbes.
Lymph: Kind of Like Blood Except It's Not
The lymphatic system moves around lymph, which is filled with white blood cells waiting to fight infections.
The lymphatic system moves around lymph, which is filled with white blood cells waiting to fight infections.
Tylenol
Tylenol is very safe in recommended doses, but can damage the liver is taken carelessly. Here's how Tylenol (acetaminophen) can damage the liver.
Tylenol is very safe in recommended doses, but can damage the liver is taken carelessly. Here's how Tylenol (acetaminophen) can damage the liver.
Are you on dialysis?
Dialysis, also known as kidney dialysis or hemodialysis, is a medical procedure where a machine acts like a kidney and filters and cleans the blood. People who are on long-term dialysis (about 350,000 in the U.S.) have a significant chance of being hepatitis C positive (up to 15%).
Dialysis, also known as kidney dialysis or hemodialysis, is a medical procedure where a machine acts like a kidney and filters and cleans the blood. People who are on long-term dialysis (about 350,000 in the U.S.) have a significant chance of being hepatitis C positive (up to 15%).
Have you ever been treated for a blood clotting problem?
If so, find out if you were treated before 1987. Back then. blood clotting problems such as hemophilia were treated with blood or products made from blood that could have the hepatitis C virus. After 1987, these products were heat treated which prevented the spread of the hepatitis viruses.
If so, find out if you were treated before 1987. Back then. blood clotting problems such as hemophilia were treated with blood or products made from blood that could have the hepatitis C virus. After 1987, these products were heat treated which prevented the spread of the hepatitis viruses.
Have you had a blood transfusion or organ transplant?
If this was before July 1992, then you need to be tested for hepatitis C. Before this date, the hepatitis C virus wasn't yet isolated and no test existed to detect it. This means that blood and organs could have been infected with the hepatitis C virus even though they were tested for other viruses like HIV and hepatitis B.
If this was before July 1992, then you need to be tested for hepatitis C. Before this date, the hepatitis C virus wasn't yet isolated and no test existed to detect it. This means that blood and organs could have been infected with the hepatitis C virus even though they were tested for other viruses like HIV and hepatitis B.
Thrombocytopenia
Definition of Thrombocytopenia
Definition of Thrombocytopenia
HBcAb
Definition of HBcAb
Definition of HBcAb
Breastfeeding and Hepatitis
Many women are concerned about breastfeeding their babies if they have viral hepatitis. Don't worry! Experts agree that it's safe to breastfeed if you have viral hepatitis. Here's why.
Many women are concerned about breastfeeding their babies if they have viral hepatitis. Don't worry! Experts agree that it's safe to breastfeed if you have viral hepatitis. Here's why.
Hepatitis Types
Hepatitis in general means "inflammation of the liver" and though there are several different causes, it's likely that most people are thinking only about viral hepatitis. However, it's good to understand all the different types because, though they have different causes, they can all lead to dangerous complications such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.
Hepatitis in general means "inflammation of the liver" and though there are several different causes, it's likely that most people are thinking only about viral hepatitis. However, it's good to understand all the different types because, though they have different causes, they can all lead to dangerous complications such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.
Hepatitis C Complications
Chronic hepatitis C affects the liver, but it's also associated with many extrahepatic diseases. Here's a list of some of them.
Chronic hepatitis C affects the liver, but it's also associated with many extrahepatic diseases. Here's a list of some of them.
Acute Liver Failure
Acute liver failure is a medical emergency that is rare but can result from various types of hepatitis, especially hepatitis A and hepatitis B infections.
Acute liver failure is a medical emergency that is rare but can result from various types of hepatitis, especially hepatitis A and hepatitis B infections.
Hepatitis C Myths
Hepatitis C is an infection caused by the hepatitis C virus and is spread through direct contact with infected blood. However, there are many myths, half-truths and misunderstandings about hepatitis C. This article discusses seven misunderstandings.
Hepatitis C is an infection caused by the hepatitis C virus and is spread through direct contact with infected blood. However, there are many myths, half-truths and misunderstandings about hepatitis C. This article discusses seven misunderstandings.
Hepatologist
Definition of hepatologist.
Definition of hepatologist.
Mosquitoes & Hepatitis
It's intuitive to think that a mosquito can spread blood-borne viruses, like hepatitis, when they bite someone infected and then move on to someone else. However, this doesn't happen because the biology of how they bite prevents it. Fortunately for everyone, viral hepatitis isn't spread from mosquitoes.
It's intuitive to think that a mosquito can spread blood-borne viruses, like hepatitis, when they bite someone infected and then move on to someone else. However, this doesn't happen because the biology of how they bite prevents it. Fortunately for everyone, viral hepatitis isn't spread from mosquitoes.
Liver Biopsy
A liver biopsy is often necessary for people with liver disease, including hepatitis. A liver biopsy removes a very small piece of your liver is removed using a special needle. The removed tissue is then studied by a pathologist who reports the results to your physician. Believe it or not, the process is very quick and relatively painless.
A liver biopsy is often necessary for people with liver disease, including hepatitis. A liver biopsy removes a very small piece of your liver is removed using a special needle. The removed tissue is then studied by a pathologist who reports the results to your physician. Believe it or not, the process is very quick and relatively painless.
Hepatotropic
Definition of Hepatotropic
Definition of Hepatotropic
Hepatitis B Panel
Interpreting Hepatitis B Blood Tests and the Serologic Panel
Interpreting Hepatitis B Blood Tests and the Serologic Panel
Spreading Hepatitis C
How can you get hepatitis C? Here are answers to six common questions about how hepatitis C spreads and how you can and cannot get hepatitis C.
How can you get hepatitis C? Here are answers to six common questions about how hepatitis C spreads and how you can and cannot get hepatitis C.
Herbs and Liver
Here are seven medicinal herbs, traditionally used around the world, that have documented evidence of causing liver damage.
Here are seven medicinal herbs, traditionally used around the world, that have documented evidence of causing liver damage.
Riba Rage
What is riba rage? When people treat for hepatitis C, the medication they use has some serious side effects. Psychiatric symptoms, such as depression and irritability, are common enough that they are called this special name by those experiencing treatment.
What is riba rage? When people treat for hepatitis C, the medication they use has some serious side effects. Psychiatric symptoms, such as depression and irritability, are common enough that they are called this special name by those experiencing treatment.
Alcohol and Hepatitis C
Chronic hepatitis C and heavy alcoholic drinking don't mix. Here are four reasons why.
Chronic hepatitis C and heavy alcoholic drinking don't mix. Here are four reasons why.
Peritoneal Fluid
Definition of Peritoneal Fluid
Definition of Peritoneal Fluid
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is a major complication of chronic hepatitis, especially from HBV and HCV infections. Worldwide, liver cancer is one of the top three types of cancers, and it's a leading cause of death in the United States. Liver cancer is a broad term that can be thought of as three different types: benign tumors, primary liver cancer and metastatic cancer.
Liver cancer is a major complication of chronic hepatitis, especially from HBV and HCV infections. Worldwide, liver cancer is one of the top three types of cancers, and it's a leading cause of death in the United States. Liver cancer is a broad term that can be thought of as three different types: benign tumors, primary liver cancer and metastatic cancer.
What's Pegylation?
Pegylated interferon is a powerful chronic hepatitis therapy. It's the "pegylation" that makes it so effective. Here's a short description of why "pegylation" is so useful.
Pegylated interferon is a powerful chronic hepatitis therapy. It's the "pegylation" that makes it so effective. Here's a short description of why "pegylation" is so useful.
Alternative Medicine
Alternative medicine is very popular, but is it a good choice for treating hepatitis? An informed patient needs to consider the benefits and criticisms of alternative treatments.
Alternative medicine is very popular, but is it a good choice for treating hepatitis? An informed patient needs to consider the benefits and criticisms of alternative treatments.
Hepatitis and Tattoos
Is there a link between hepatitis and tattoos? Yes, there is and here's how you can protect yourself.
Is there a link between hepatitis and tattoos? Yes, there is and here's how you can protect yourself.
A Closer Look at Blood Cells
Red blood cells and white blood cells are very active in your body's physiology and immune system.
Red blood cells and white blood cells are very active in your body's physiology and immune system.
Do you have liver disease or abnormal liver tests?
Liver disease and abnormal liver tests are caused by something and it could be the hepatitis C virus. You should also consider that you may be infected with hepatitis C in addition to another problem. Get tested to find out.
Liver disease and abnormal liver tests are caused by something and it could be the hepatitis C virus. You should also consider that you may be infected with hepatitis C in addition to another problem. Get tested to find out.
Hepititis
Definition of hepititis.
Definition of hepititis.
Living With
Today, living with hepatitis is possible thanks to modern medicine and preventive care. Learn more about what to do (and not do) to live a full life with chronic disease.
Today, living with hepatitis is possible thanks to modern medicine and preventive care. Learn more about what to do (and not do) to live a full life with chronic disease.
Donating Blood
If you have hepatitis B or hepatitis C, or ever tested positive them, you can't donate blood. In fact, if you had any kind of viral hepatitis, or unexplained jaundice, at any time since you were age 11, you're not able to donate blood.
If you have hepatitis B or hepatitis C, or ever tested positive them, you can't donate blood. In fact, if you had any kind of viral hepatitis, or unexplained jaundice, at any time since you were age 11, you're not able to donate blood.
Hepatitis C Appearance
What does the hepatitis C virus look like? Though it's too small to see, it's possible to use a model to describe how the virus might actually appear.
What does the hepatitis C virus look like? Though it's too small to see, it's possible to use a model to describe how the virus might actually appear.
Neutropenia
Neutropenia - Definition of Neutropenia
Neutropenia - Definition of Neutropenia
Fecal-Oral Route
Hepatitis A and hepatitis E spread from person to person along the fecal-oral route. This means that feces contaminated with HAV or HEV from an infected person are somehow ingested by another person. This sounds gross and bizarre, but it happens in surprising ways.
Hepatitis A and hepatitis E spread from person to person along the fecal-oral route. This means that feces contaminated with HAV or HEV from an infected person are somehow ingested by another person. This sounds gross and bizarre, but it happens in surprising ways.
Have you had a needlestick injury?
A needlestick injury is when you accidentally stick yourself with a used needle. This used to be a relatively common accident with healthcare workers, but modern needles and disposal techniques make this less common. However, it still does happen. Any needlestick injury or any exposure to blood through a sharp object injury needs to be followed up with a hepatitis C blood test.
A needlestick injury is when you accidentally stick yourself with a used needle. This used to be a relatively common accident with healthcare workers, but modern needles and disposal techniques make this less common. However, it still does happen. Any needlestick injury or any exposure to blood through a sharp object injury needs to be followed up with a hepatitis C blood test.
Serum Albumin
Serum albumin is a protein in the blood which can help determine liver disease like cirrhosis. Here's a brief description of how doctors can test for serum albumin and interpret this liver function test.
Serum albumin is a protein in the blood which can help determine liver disease like cirrhosis. Here's a brief description of how doctors can test for serum albumin and interpret this liver function test.
Make No Bones About It, Marrow Is Important
Bone marrow is the location of stem cells which can develop into red and white blood cells.
Bone marrow is the location of stem cells which can develop into red and white blood cells.
Are you HIV positive?
If you are infected with HIV you need to be tested for hepatitis C. This is because hepatitis C infection is more serious in people infected with HIV and it's also a very common co-infection. Between 50% and 90% of HIV-infected drug users also have hepatitis C.
If you are infected with HIV you need to be tested for hepatitis C. This is because hepatitis C infection is more serious in people infected with HIV and it's also a very common co-infection. Between 50% and 90% of HIV-infected drug users also have hepatitis C.
Sexual Transmission
Which hepatitis viruses are spread through sexual contact? Each hepatitis virus has its own risk and you are more likely to get some types of hepatitis from sex than others.
Which hepatitis viruses are spread through sexual contact? Each hepatitis virus has its own risk and you are more likely to get some types of hepatitis from sex than others.
Pros and Cons of Forums
Are online hepatitis forums good places for support? Here are the pros and cons of joining a virtual community for hepatitis support.
Are online hepatitis forums good places for support? Here are the pros and cons of joining a virtual community for hepatitis support.
Fibrosis
Definition of Fibrosis
Definition of Fibrosis
Hepatitis A Spread
Hepatitis A spreads by ingesting the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This article explains fecal-oral spread and gives examples of hepatitis A transmission.
Hepatitis A spreads by ingesting the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This article explains fecal-oral spread and gives examples of hepatitis A transmission.
Who Needs Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A is a disease caused by a virus, the hepatitis A virus, that can infect anyone. However, some people are at a higher risk for being exposed to the virus and should take steps to protect themselves. Here are seven reasons to get the hepatitis A vaccine.
Hepatitis A is a disease caused by a virus, the hepatitis A virus, that can infect anyone. However, some people are at a higher risk for being exposed to the virus and should take steps to protect themselves. Here are seven reasons to get the hepatitis A vaccine.
Encephalopathy
Definition of Encephalopathy.
Definition of Encephalopathy.
Immune System: An Extensive Protection
The immune system is a collection of organs, cells and specialized tissue that work together to defend your body against harmful bacteria and viruses.
The immune system is a collection of organs, cells and specialized tissue that work together to defend your body against harmful bacteria and viruses.
Sustained Response
Sustained Virologic Response is the closest you'll get to a cure from hepatitis C. If you reach SVR, this means that you are virus free six months after treatment ends, and this is a good thing! Let's look at SVR a little more closely.
Sustained Virologic Response is the closest you'll get to a cure from hepatitis C. If you reach SVR, this means that you are virus free six months after treatment ends, and this is a good thing! Let's look at SVR a little more closely.
Symptom
Definition of symptom.
Definition of symptom.
It's Crowded in Your Blood
There are many cells in the blood and each has a different function.
There are many cells in the blood and each has a different function.
Organ Donation and Hepatitis
Can you be an organ donor if you have hepatitis? Organ donation is a tremendous opportunity to help another person. Fortunately, having hepatitis is not a problem. People with hepatitis and other liver diseases can still be organ donors.
Can you be an organ donor if you have hepatitis? Organ donation is a tremendous opportunity to help another person. Fortunately, having hepatitis is not a problem. People with hepatitis and other liver diseases can still be organ donors.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is popular for treating chronic hepatitis. Here are answers to the most asked questions about what milk thistle is and how it works.
Milk thistle is popular for treating chronic hepatitis. Here are answers to the most asked questions about what milk thistle is and how it works.
Plasma
Definition of plasma
Definition of plasma
Hepatitis
Definition of hepatitis.
Definition of hepatitis.
STAT-C Treatment
STAT-C, short for Specifically Targeted Antiviral Therapy for hepatitis C is the treatment approach that many experts think is the future for HCV.
STAT-C, short for Specifically Targeted Antiviral Therapy for hepatitis C is the treatment approach that many experts think is the future for HCV.
What Are HCV RNA Tests?
HCV RNA tests are essential for diagnosing and treating hepatitis C infections. Here's a brief description of the two types and how they are used.
HCV RNA tests are essential for diagnosing and treating hepatitis C infections. Here's a brief description of the two types and how they are used.
HCV and Pregnancy
Can a pregnant woman give hepatitis C to her baby? It's possible, but it doesn't happen all the time.
Can a pregnant woman give hepatitis C to her baby? It's possible, but it doesn't happen all the time.
Biopsy Required?
Is it possible to diagnose cirrhosis without a biopsy? Physicians can clinically diagnose cirrhosis caused by chronic liver disease without a liver biopsy, but to be certain, they need to do a liver biopsy. This is the only way to determine the severity and progression of cirrhosis.
Is it possible to diagnose cirrhosis without a biopsy? Physicians can clinically diagnose cirrhosis caused by chronic liver disease without a liver biopsy, but to be certain, they need to do a liver biopsy. This is the only way to determine the severity and progression of cirrhosis.
Who Needs Hepatitis B Vaccine?
The hepatitis B vaccine offers safe and long-term protection from exposure to the hepatitis B virus. While anyone can benefit from the vaccine and anyone who wishes to become immune can become vaccinated, some people are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated against hepatitis B. Basically, these are people who, through their work, lifestyle or medical history, are at a greater risk of being exposed to the virus or developing complications.
The hepatitis B vaccine offers safe and long-term protection from exposure to the hepatitis B virus. While anyone can benefit from the vaccine and anyone who wishes to become immune can become vaccinated, some people are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated against hepatitis B. Basically, these are people who, through their work, lifestyle or medical history, are at a greater risk of being exposed to the virus or developing complications.
Incubation Period
Definition of Incubation Period
Definition of Incubation Period
Microbe
Microbe - Definition of Microbe
Microbe - Definition of Microbe
Liver Transplant Indications
Liver transplantation is the best treatment for some patients with acute or chronic liver disease that is progressive, life-threatening and unable to be successfully treated with alternative therapies. Liver transplantation has about a 90% one-year survival rate and thousands of people are benefiting from this procedure in the United States and worldwide every year.
Liver transplantation is the best treatment for some patients with acute or chronic liver disease that is progressive, life-threatening and unable to be successfully treated with alternative therapies. Liver transplantation has about a 90% one-year survival rate and thousands of people are benefiting from this procedure in the United States and worldwide every year.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a major public health problem. Hepatitis C is a disease caused by the hepatitis C virus and targets the liver, leading to inflammation. Unless the hepatitis C virus is cleared from the liver, fibrosis develops and usually leads to serious complications such as cirrhosis.
Hepatitis C is a major public health problem. Hepatitis C is a disease caused by the hepatitis C virus and targets the liver, leading to inflammation. Unless the hepatitis C virus is cleared from the liver, fibrosis develops and usually leads to serious complications such as cirrhosis.
Clinician
Definition of clinician
Definition of clinician
How Hepatitis C Spreads
Hepatitis C has many ways to spread from person to person, though they all involve some type of direct contact with infected blood. Here are seven documented examples of hepatitis C transmission or spread.
Hepatitis C has many ways to spread from person to person, though they all involve some type of direct contact with infected blood. Here are seven documented examples of hepatitis C transmission or spread.
Who Can Treat Hepatitis?
The United States healthcare system is made up of a complex group of professionals, industries and programs that work together to provide medical care for nearly 300 million people. A system this big requires many different medical professionals, each with needed skills and areas of expertise.
The United States healthcare system is made up of a complex group of professionals, industries and programs that work together to provide medical care for nearly 300 million people. A system this big requires many different medical professionals, each with needed skills and areas of expertise.
Hepatitis C Genotypes
How are hepatitis C genotypes important? Here is location and treatment information about hepatitis C genotypes 1 through 6.
How are hepatitis C genotypes important? Here is location and treatment information about hepatitis C genotypes 1 through 6.
Sign
Definition of sign.
Definition of sign.
Spleen
Definition of spleen
Definition of spleen
Hepatitis - Articles
An index of articles for the Hepatitis guide site.
An index of articles for the Hepatitis guide site.
Gastroenterologist
Definition of gastroenterologist.
Definition of gastroenterologist.
Hope And Dennis
Hope and Dennis, as a couple, have shared many things together. About six years ago they really put their relationship to the test when they were both diagnosed with hepatitis C. Together they learned about the disease and together they went through treatment. Here, they share their story about their experiences with the ups and downs of living with hepatitis C.
Hope and Dennis, as a couple, have shared many things together. About six years ago they really put their relationship to the test when they were both diagnosed with hepatitis C. Together they learned about the disease and together they went through treatment. Here, they share their story about their experiences with the ups and downs of living with hepatitis C.
Hepatitis A and Restaurants
Hepatitis A sometimes is spread by food handlers in restaurants. Does this mean that restaurants are dangerous places where people can be exposed to hepatitis A? Not really. Though this is a good time to talk about hand washing!
Hepatitis A sometimes is spread by food handlers in restaurants. Does this mean that restaurants are dangerous places where people can be exposed to hepatitis A? Not really. Though this is a good time to talk about hand washing!
Hepatocyte
Definition of Hepatocyte
Definition of Hepatocyte
Preventing Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C infection is a worldwide problem that can easily become your problem, too. Astonishingly, about 170 million people in the world suffer from this preventable infection. Since chronic hepatitis C can lead to many serious health problems, such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, it's important to know and understand how to protect yourself through prevention.
Hepatitis C infection is a worldwide problem that can easily become your problem, too. Astonishingly, about 170 million people in the world suffer from this preventable infection. Since chronic hepatitis C can lead to many serious health problems, such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, it's important to know and understand how to protect yourself through prevention.
Viral Load
Viral load is a measurement of the amount of virus in your blood. Most commonly, viral load is found in people with hepatitis C. Using a test called quantitative HCV RNA, the number of hepatitis viruses in the blood is determined by how much viral RNA (the virus' genetic material) is detected. There is also a viral load test for hepatitis B.
Viral load is a measurement of the amount of virus in your blood. Most commonly, viral load is found in people with hepatitis C. Using a test called quantitative HCV RNA, the number of hepatitis viruses in the blood is determined by how much viral RNA (the virus' genetic material) is detected. There is also a viral load test for hepatitis B.
Difference between interferons
Pegylated interferons are powerful drugs that treat viral hepatitis. Two kinds are licensed for use but what makes them different? This is a question that many patients ask.
Pegylated interferons are powerful drugs that treat viral hepatitis. Two kinds are licensed for use but what makes them different? This is a question that many patients ask.
Immune System
Definition of Immune System
Definition of Immune System
Five Ways to Help Yourself
In a perfect world, we should trust our physicians, nurses and healthcare providers to, at the very least, not harm us. While many of us have access to well-trained medical providers and most medical care is probably top-notch, we're fooling ourselves if we think mistakes don't or can't happen. Most of these mistakes, I believe, are probably harmless, and I don't worry so much about them. I worry, though, about the mistakes that place us in danger.
In a perfect world, we should trust our physicians, nurses and healthcare providers to, at the very least, not harm us. While many of us have access to well-trained medical providers and most medical care is probably top-notch, we're fooling ourselves if we think mistakes don't or can't happen. Most of these mistakes, I believe, are probably harmless, and I don't worry so much about them. I worry, though, about the mistakes that place us in danger.
Theresa, the Dragon Slayer
Theresa shares her wonderful story about hepatitis C treatment. People who are now living with hepatitis C will find hope and encouragement through her words.
Theresa shares her wonderful story about hepatitis C treatment. People who are now living with hepatitis C will find hope and encouragement through her words.
Cirrhosis Causes
Cirrhosis is one of the top causes of death in the United States. As the liver is injured over a long period of time (from many different causes), the liver replaces damaged cells with scar tissue called "fibrosis." Extensive fibrosis is caused by cirrhosis, which can lead to serious liver problems as the liver loses its ability to function.
Cirrhosis is one of the top causes of death in the United States. As the liver is injured over a long period of time (from many different causes), the liver replaces damaged cells with scar tissue called "fibrosis." Extensive fibrosis is caused by cirrhosis, which can lead to serious liver problems as the liver loses its ability to function.
HCV RNA
Definition of HCV RNA
Definition of HCV RNA
Internet Support Groups
A listing of online hepatitis support groups.
A listing of online hepatitis support groups.
Virus
Definition of virus.
Definition of virus.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A vaccine provides effective protection against infection from the hepatitis A virus for up to 25 years. Immunization is strongly recommended for many people with an increased risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus.
Hepatitis A vaccine provides effective protection against infection from the hepatitis A virus for up to 25 years. Immunization is strongly recommended for many people with an increased risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself against hepatitis B infection. Since hepatitis B infection can lead to liver failure and liver cancer, protecting yourself from infection is important. Here's what you need to know about hepatitis B vaccine.
Hepatitis B vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself against hepatitis B infection. Since hepatitis B infection can lead to liver failure and liver cancer, protecting yourself from infection is important. Here's what you need to know about hepatitis B vaccine.
Immune Globulin
Immune globulin (IG) is a powerful therapy for treating hepatitis A and hepatitis B. IG, however, has limitations. This article discusses the uses of IG for treating HAV and HBV infections.
Immune globulin (IG) is a powerful therapy for treating hepatitis A and hepatitis B. IG, however, has limitations. This article discusses the uses of IG for treating HAV and HBV infections.
HBeAg
Definition of HBeAg
Definition of HBeAg
Myalgia
Myalgia - Definition of Myalgia
Myalgia - Definition of Myalgia
An Interview with Mike
Have you ever wondered how a medical professional would deal with a diagnosis of hepatitis C and the treatment process? In reality, the men and women who treat us often must struggle through the same ailments and they do it the same way as everyone else. In this interview, a hospital nurse describes how he lives his life with a career, family and hepatitis C.
Have you ever wondered how a medical professional would deal with a diagnosis of hepatitis C and the treatment process? In reality, the men and women who treat us often must struggle through the same ailments and they do it the same way as everyone else. In this interview, a hospital nurse describes how he lives his life with a career, family and hepatitis C.
Alcohol and Cirrhosis
Does drinking alcohol, such as beer or wine, cause liver cirrhosis? It's one of the causes, but some people are at more risk than others.
Does drinking alcohol, such as beer or wine, cause liver cirrhosis? It's one of the causes, but some people are at more risk than others.
Edema
Definition of Edema
Definition of Edema