Do you often experience fatigue, jaundice, or unexplained abdominal pain? You may be dealing with hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver caused by viral infections, with types A, B, C, and E being the most common. Dr. Masood Tareen, whose clinic is at Yaseen Hospital in Quetta, can help diagnose and manage your hepatitis symptoms, providing you with the care you need. Call today or schedule an appointment to start treatment for hepatitis.
Hepatitis Q & A
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by various factors, including viral infections. The most common types of viral hepatitis include:
- Hepatitis A: Usually transmitted through contaminated food or water.
- Hepatitis B: Spread through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood or sexual contact.
- Hepatitis C: Primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, often via sharing needles.
- Hepatitis E: Typically spread through contaminated drinking water.
Symptoms of hepatitis can vary, but they may include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially in the upper right quadrant
- Loss of appetite and nausea
Many people may not show symptoms, especially in the early stages, which is why regular health check-ups are essential.
When Should I See a Doctor for Hepatitis?
If you notice symptoms such as jaundice, severe fatigue, or persistent abdominal pain, it’s important to consult Dr. Masood Tareen. Additionally, if you have risk factors for hepatitis, such as travel to high-risk areas, unprotected sex, or sharing needles, seek medical advice even if you don’t have symptoms.
Dr. Masood Tareen can evaluate your symptoms and may conduct blood tests to confirm the type of hepatitis and assess liver function.
How is Hepatitis Managed?
Managing hepatitis depends on the type and severity of the infection. Dr. Masood Tareen may recommend:
- For Hepatitis A: Rest and hydration, as it usually resolves on its own.
- For Hepatitis B: Monitoring and antiviral medications if the infection becomes chronic.
- For Hepatitis C: Antiviral medications can effectively cure most cases of hepatitis C.
- For Hepatitis E: Usually self-limiting, with supportive care recommended.
Lifestyle modifications, including avoiding alcohol and maintaining a healthy diet, are important for liver health.
What Medical Treatments are Available for Hepatitis?
Treatment options vary based on the type of hepatitis. For chronic hepatitis B and C, antiviral medications are commonly used to manage the infection and prevent complications.
For hepatitis A and E, supportive care is generally sufficient, as these infections often resolve without the need for specific antiviral treatment.
For a thorough evaluation and effective management of hepatitis, contact Dr. Masood Tareen at Yaseen Hospital in Quetta to schedule an appointment and take charge of your liver health.