How long can viral hepatitis last?

Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
Updated on September 19, 2024
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The lifespan of someone with viral hepatitis is closely linked to the severity of their condition and also greatly depends on the patient's own actions. There are many influencing factors, and it is not possible to generalize. If the patient adheres to conventional treatment, regular check-ups, rests adequately, maintains a sensible diet, and abstains from alcohol, most conditions can be effectively managed, significantly reducing the chances of the disease progressing further. Therefore, patients need not worry excessively; maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude can further aid in recovery from the disease.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Do you need a blood transfusion for viral hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis, especially in cases where the condition is particularly severe, bilirubin levels are particularly high, and coagulation function is particularly poor, may require plasma treatment. This involves the administration of plasma and nutritional support as symptomatic supportive therapy. Some patients may also need plasma exchange and artificial liver treatment. The treatment of viral hepatitis should aim to remove the cause of the disease as much as possible while also strengthening liver protection and enzyme reduction therapies. Severe cases may require plasma treatment. Treatment decisions should be based on the actual situation and starting treatment early in the onset of the disease can stabilize most conditions.

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
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Differential Diagnosis of Viral Hepatitis Symptoms

Viral hepatitis is a type of infectious disease primarily characterized by liver lesions caused by hepatitis viruses. Clinically, it manifests mainly as loss of appetite, nausea, discomfort in the upper abdomen, pain in the liver area, and fatigue. Some patients may experience jaundice, fever, and enlargement of the liver area. In some cases, the condition can become chronic and even progress to cirrhosis of the liver or, in a few cases, liver cancer. Acute hepatitis and active chronic hepatitis require hospitalization for treatment, bed rest, a proper diet, and strict abstinence from alcohol. For hepatitis B and C, if antiviral support is available, antiviral treatment can be initiated.

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Written by Zhang Jian Kang
Infectious Disease
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Is viral hepatitis serious?

The onset of viral hepatitis is fast or sudden, and it depends on the type of hepatitis. Viral hepatitis can be categorized into acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver failure, cholestatic hepatitis, and cirrhotic hepatitis. Acute hepatitis and liver failure typically have a rapid onset, with common pathogens like Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E, which can cause acute hepatitis and may lead to symptoms such as significant fatigue, poor appetite, and dark urine in a short period. However, chronic hepatitis caused by Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, which can even lead to cirrhosis, tends to progress slowly. After infection with the virus, the body may carry the virus for a long time without any symptoms. It may take 10-20 years or even longer for symptoms like fatigue and poor appetite to appear.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Is viral hepatitis contagious?

Viral hepatitis is contagious, with different types of viral hepatitis transmitted in different ways. The common types of viral hepatitis include Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E are acute self-limiting liver diseases, which are contagious during the symptomatic phase and also during the incubation period, primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route via the digestive tract. Therefore, for those infected with Hepatitis A or E, gastrointestinal isolation and symptomatic treatment are required. Hepatitis B and C are transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child, with general contact not leading to infection.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Can you smoke with viral hepatitis?

Patients with viral hepatitis should not smoke or drink alcohol. They need to rest well, ensure sufficient sleep, eat light and easily digestible foods, and avoid overly greasy, irritating, or moldy foods. The variety of food should be abundant and nutritionally balanced, with meals distributed reasonably. Moreover, treatment should be tailored according to the type of viral hepatitis, aiming to eliminate the cause of the disease and strengthen liver protection and enzyme reduction. Different types of viral hepatitis require different treatment approaches; for example, hepatitis B and C may need antiviral treatment, whereas hepatitis A and E mainly require enhanced liver protection and enzyme reduction treatments.