AskDocDoc
/
/
/
define viral hepatitis
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Infectious Illnesses
Question #16426
2 days ago
20

define viral hepatitis - #16426

Yuvan

I am really confused about something and hoping someone can help me out. My cousin, who's only 28, went to the doctor a few weeks ago saying he felt super tired all the time and had this weird pain in his right side. Turns out, after a bunch of tests, they told him he has viral hepatitis. I never really understood what that meant, like what does it mean to define viral hepatitis? I googled it, but all the medical jargon just made my head spin. Is it contagious? Like, can I catch it from him or something? I mean, we never shared any needles or anything gross like that, but we hang out a lot, you know? Also, what are the symptoms exactly? His doctor mentioned something about liver function and how it could get worse if he's not careful, but it was a bit overwhelming and I couldn’t catch everything. I worry for him because he seems really unwell, and now I keep thinking, could this happen to me? Can you guys help me to define viral hepatitis in a way that makes sense? Like, what causes it and how serious is it really? Any info would be great!

FREE
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Viral hepatitis is basically an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. There are several types—like hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E—which are each spread differently. Some common symptoms are fatigue, abdominal pain, especially on the right side (where the liver is located), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and sometimes nausea. Hepatitis A is often contracted from contaminated food or water, and is less of a long-term concern, while B and C can be more serious and are typically spread through blood and bodily fluids. It’s good to know that casual contact, like hanging out, is very unlikely to be a transmission pathway, but sharing personal items like razors or indeed anything involving blood contact should be cautious. Testing and vaccinations are important. If it’s hepatitis B or C, regular monitoring by healthcare providers is key since they can lead to chronic liver conditions if unmanaged. Encourage your cousin to follow medical advice, avoid alcohol, and maintain a healthy diet to help the liver recover. Symptoms can differ widely between people and, yes, without intervention symptoms might escalate, impacting liver function significantly. It’s crucial that any worsening symptoms are quickly addressed by his healthcare provider. If you’re worried about your own health risk, it might be prudent to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional who can give personalized advice and any necessary vaccinations or testing.

6470 answered questions
75% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions