PharmEasy Blog

World Hepatitis Day: What It Means For You!

World Hepatitis Day is on 28th July. This is the day when the whole world comes together to spread awareness regarding the disorder. This is because there are 400 million people with hepatitis globally. Not just that, it stands at number 8 in the list of diseases with high mortality rates.

What Is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. The liver is responsible for a set of very important functions-

And when you get Hepatitis, your liver has trouble carrying out its duties.

In 2023 the theme is ‘We’re not waiting. On World Hepatitis Day, 28 July, we call on people around the world to take action because Hepatitis Can’t Wait. WHD is a day for the world’s hepatitis community to unite and make our voices heard. I advise everyone to get tested atleast once a year.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

What Are The Different Hepatitis Types?

There are 5 Hepatitis types– A, B, C, D, and E. Each is triggered by a different kind of virus.  

Hepatitis A –

Hepatitis A is caused by the Hepatitis A Virus (HAV). It is not a dangerous disease and does not last long. You may get this illness if you consume food or water that contains the faecal matter from a person infected with Hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B –

This disease is triggered by the Hepatitis B Virus. It can be transmitted to you if you come in contact with bodily fluids of an infected person such as blood, semen or vaginal fluids. Sharing razors or syringes with a person with Hepatitis B can also give you this disorder.

Hepatitis B is more dangerous than Hepatitis A and lasts longer. In India, nearly 40 million people have been diagnosed with this type of Hepatitis.

A person may e a carrier of hepatitis and may not even know. Therefore, one should be mindful of activities that involve exposure to bodily fluids and get tested when in doubt of exposure.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Hepatitis C –

Hepatitis C is the result of an infection caused by the Hepatitis C Virus or HCV. It is transmitted when you have sexual contact with a person diagnosed with Hepatitis C or if you use the same syringe. It affects 6-12 million people in India.

Hepatitis D –

This is triggered by the Hepatitis D Virus (HDV). It is the rarest kind of Hepatitis and always is accompanied by Hepatitis B.   The only way you can contract Hepatitis D is through contact with infected blood.

Hepatitis E –

Hepatitis E Virus causes this form of Hepatitis and it is water-born.   That is why the disease is especially common in those regions of the world where sanitation is inadequate.

The Autoimmune Aspect –

Hepatitis can sometimes be a result of an autoimmune response. Your immune system might see your liver as a threat and start attacking it. This will make your liver swell up.

Hepatitis if encountered in pregnancy won’t hurt your unborn baby or affect your pregnancy. If your doctor knows you have it, they can help you manage it during your pregnancy to lower the chances of any long-term liver disease for you and your baby, although Hepatitis B and D carry higher health risks.

Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

What Are Some Common Hepatitis Symptoms?

There are a few signs that will indicate that you have a case of acute Hepatitis-

A Hepatitis Screening Panel can tell you if you have contracted any of the five types of Hepatitis.

Treatment Of Hepatitis –

Hepatitis treatment is easily available-

On World Hepatitis Day you can pledge to adopt measures that will prevent Hepatitis. Maintain personal hygiene, keep an eye on the food and water you are consuming, do not share needles or razors or toothbrushes and use protection during sex. Don’t forget to vaccinate your children, loved ones and yourself. Together we can make the world free of Hepatitis.

Also Read: What is Cirrhosis of the Liver: An In-Depth Look at Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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16 Symptoms Of Poor Kidney Function To Watch Out For!

Kidneys are responsible for purifying our blood and removing the toxins from our body in the form of urine. Located near the lower back area, they are present on either side of the body. If one kidney fails due to some reasons, the other can take over the detoxifying functions, and the person can survive for many years on the basis of that one kidney alone. However, it is essential to maintain good kidney health as poor kidney function can lead to various health complications.

Due to many reasons, kidneys can get affected negatively and lose their blood purifying functions. They cannot filter out the waste, and the toxins stay in the system causing many complications. Permanent kidney failure is one of them, and it can be life-threatening. Unfortunately, poor kidney function or kidney malfunction is not apparent in the initial stages. Let us look at some of the symptoms of kidney problems and find out more about them.

Do You Know 

Symptoms Of Poor Kidney Function

1. Reduced Urine Output

One of the first noticeable signs of some kidney malfunction is reduced urine output.

2. Blood in the Urine

Having blood in the urine is a significant pointer towards the health of your kidneys. While it does not necessarily mean that the kidneys are malfunctioning, it can mean that there are some problems that could lead to more serious damage to the organs.

3. Protein in the Urine

Another common sign of kidney malfunction is the presence of protein in the urine. Healthy kidneys throw out the waste materials like excess minerals and keep important nutrients like a protein within the body. When the kidney filters are damaged, they allow the protein in the blood to leak into the urine. Early intervention can prevent further damage.

4. Presence Of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can cause kidney malfunction. If they are small in size, they are harmless. But the larger ones can move into the urinary tract and cause blockage, leading to complications. Kidney stones are caused by the buildup of certain minerals in the body in the absence of enough fluid to pass them out through the urine. They are a common problem in those who don’t drink enough water. Also, read about common symptoms and warning signs of kidney stones.

5. Kidney Infection

Sometimes, urinary tract infections can lead to kidney infections. Common symptoms of a kidney infection include vomiting, pain in the lower back or sides and fever. Women tend to suffer from these kinds of infections due to their susceptibility towards UTIs, and it leads to poor kidney function and can cause permanent kidney damage.

6. Swelling In The Body

When the kidneys get affected, they do not detoxify the system properly. This leads to an extra buildup of fluid in the legs and feet. The person suffers from swelling of the legs and ankles. The hands may also swell up. A puffy face is also a common sight.

7. Unexplained Fatigue

Kidneys are responsible for making EPO, erythropoietin, which instructs the body to make RBCs (red blood cells). When the kidneys get affected, they make less EPO leading to a reduction in RBCs in the body. This affects the amount of oxygen in the body, and one feels tired very quickly.

8. Shortness of Breath

This happens as there is a reduced supply of oxygen-carrying red blood cells, and this can lead to anaemia. Also, sometimes when the kidneys get affected, there is a buildup of fluid in the lungs.

9. Nausea

Since kidney malfunction can cause anaemia, it can lead to a short supply of oxygen to the brain. The person can feel dizzy and weak because of that.

10. Trouble Thinking Clearly

This is again due to the brain not getting enough oxygen because of anaemia. The person begins to suffer from memory problems and has difficulty concentrating.

11. Seizures

When the brain does not get enough oxygen, it can lead to seizures. Since the amount of red blood cells gets affected when the kidneys malfunction and they are the vehicles for transporting oxygen, seizures are a definite possibility. Some people may even go into a coma if the condition is left untreated.

12. Acute Kidney Injury

When the damage to the kidneys is sudden, it can lead to Acute Kidney Injury. The kidneys stop working in a matter of a few days to a few hours. If left untreated, it is a life-threatening problem. This can happen due to an infection, an injury or even because of some medicines.

13. Kidney Pain

Another sign of poor kidney function or kidney malfunction is the pain in the lower back and on the sides of the body as it may or may not signify pain in the kidneys.

14. Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection affecting the liver. Both the liver and the kidney are connected as they both help in the detoxification of the blood. Many times, liver diseases like hepatitis C can affect the kidneys and cause damage to them.

15. Abnormal Urine

Foamy, bubbly urine that is brown, red or purple in colour is another sign that something is not right with the kidneys. The person may feel abdominal pressure while passing the urine. One may feel like passing urine, but nothing might happen.

16. Bad Breath

Those who suffer from kidney damage suffer from bad breath due to the buildup of wastes in the body. The foul smell is due to the presence of ammonia. The person even suffers from loss of appetite as the food doesn’t taste nice. This is because of wastes in the body that affect how the body perceives the taste of food.

Causes of Kidney Malfunction

A sudden loss of blood flow to these vital organs can lead to kidney failure. Some conditions which can cause that are:

Preventing Poor Kidney Function or Kidney Damage

There are many things we can do to avoid harm to our kidneys.

  1. Never do self-medication. Even when taking medicines, it is best to follow the doses that are prescribed. Taking doses that are too high can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys.
  2. Avoid unnecessary exposure to household chemicals. Pesticides, floor cleaners etc. must be used only if necessary.
  3. Kidney and urinary tract infections can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. Follow the doctor’s orders and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Take care of your kidneys by following a healthy lifestyle, drinking enough water and getting immediate treatment if you suspect that something is wrong. Do not overdose on medicines and keep track of any out of ordinary activity concerning urination in your body. Most kidney diseases can be treated, and in acute cases options of dialysis, surgery or kidney transplant are possible.

Also Read About: Tips to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Everything about Hepatitis – Types, Symptoms & Tests

Knowing everything about hepatitis before dealing with it is important. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis infections are caused by viruses that enter the body through different routes and attack the liver, which acts as a filtering unit within the body. When hepatitis contaminates this vital organ, the liver cannot do its job and toxins accumulate. Also, the liver is responsible for clotting factors, and infection impairs this function. Read everything about hepatitis and know the crucial: 

Types of Hepatitis

There are five different types of hepatitis: A, B, C, D, and E. 

One of the more common causes of acute hepatitis is hepatitis A virus (HAV), which was isolated by Purcell in 1973. Humans appear to be the only reservoir for this virus. Infection with the hepatitis A virus (HAV), an enterovirus transmitted principally through person-to-person contact, and also through food and water contaminated with fecal matter from an infected individual. Eating shellfish taken from impure water is another known route of infection. Symptoms of Hepatitis A typically improve within three weeks, but can linger for several months.

Hepatitis B is a contagious liver disease that ranges in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, life long illness. Hepatitis B can be either acute or chronic. In chronic stage, the liver disease can progress and cause cirrhosis requiring liver transplantation. Some patients with cirrhosis develop liver cancer too. Many people with chronic Hepatitis B virus infection do not know they are infected since they do not feel or look sick. However, they can still spread the virus to others and are at risk of serious health problems themselves. Treatment for these cases includes medications such as antivirals and in severe cases a liver transplant may be needed.

The hepatitis C virus was discovered in 1989. Prior to that, it was associated with blood transfusions, but was called non-A, non-B hepatitis because the virus could not be identified. It is now known that there are several hereditary types of the hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis C can remain asymptomatic for decades. If left unchecked, 20–25% of infected individuals will develop cirrhosis of the liver, 3–5% of whom will develop liver cancer each year. Of the infected population, 50–60% remain undiagnosed and unaware of the risks associated with the disease.

Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is found only in people who carry the hepatitis B virus. HDV may make liver disease worse in people who have either recent or long-term hepatitis B. It can even cause symptoms in people who carry hepatitis B virus but who never had symptoms. No vaccine is available for HDV, but the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination is effective against HDV.

It tends to be similar to hepatitis A because it’s not a persistent disease – it eventually leaves your system. Hepatitis E is more pervasive in countries with poor sanitary conditions, and it can be deadly to pregnant women. Like the other types of viral hepatitis, hepatitis E causes engorgement and inflammation of your liver.

Symptoms of Hepatitis

The most important branch of knowing everything about hepatitis is its symptoms. At first, chronic hepatitis often does not cause any symptoms. People with symptoms most commonly complain of exhaustion. Fatigue worsens throughout the day and may even be debilitating. Other common symptoms include:

If chronic hepatitis becomes more relentless, people may experience additional symptoms, including:

Testing for Hepatitis

A hepatitis blood test screens an individual’s blood for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C antibodies.  If there are hepatitis antibodies in an individual’s blood, his or her immune system is either currently combating a hepatitis infection or has fought the infection in the past. Due to the dependence of HDV on HBV, the presence of HBsAg is necessary for the diagnosis of HDV infection. Acute HEV infection is usually diagnosed by detecting specific anti-HEV antibodies (IgM and IgG). Analysis of HEV RNA in biologic specimens such as stools, serum, and liver biopsy using NATs is also used for diagnosis. Keeping oneself informed in knowing Everything about Hepatitis is the first step towards avoiding it. 

Also Read: What is Cirrhosis of the Liver: An In-Depth Look at Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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