Understanding Hepatitis

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month. Hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, is a serious and often misunderstood health issue. In the United States, the most common form is viral hepatitis, caused by the hepatitis A, B, and C viruses. In many cases, viral hepatitis does not cause noticeable symptoms, allowing infections to go undetected for years, sometimes until irreversible liver damage has occurred. The good news? Hepatitis is preventable, treatable, and, in some cases, even curable.

"While there are five different hepatitis viruses, the most common ones in the United States are hepatitis A, B, and C," explains Dr. Arsheya Patel. "Hepatitis A usually spreads through contaminated food and water. It can cause numerous gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, in addition to abnormal liver blood tests. Fortunately, for most people, the infection is short-term and does not cause permanent liver damage."

Hepatitis B and C can present as short-term or chronic infections. Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids, while hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Both viruses can remain “silent” in the body for years, quietly damaging the liver. If left untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. This is why early testing is so important—detecting an infection early greatly improves the chances of successful management or cure, minimizing long-term liver damage.

There are a variety of ways to get tested, protected, and treated for viral hepatitis. Each virus can be detected with a simple blood test. Vaccinations are available for hepatitis A and B. While most people are vaccinated against hepatitis B as infants, that immunity can diminish over time. Even if you were vaccinated in the past, it is important to check whether you are still immune. Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, but highly effective treatment options are available that can cure the infection.

"Talk to your healthcare provider about hepatitis testing and prevention," advises Dr. Patel. "Practice safe habits, including avoiding the sharing of personal hygiene items, using protection during intercourse, and never sharing needles. With the right knowledge and care, you can protect yourself and others, helping to ensure a hepatitis-free future. The more we know, the more we can prevent."