Hepatitis
The liver is one of the largest vital organs in the human body and plays a fundamental role in maintaining the health and vitality of the body. The liver is characterized by its high capacity for regeneration and restoration of its size and function after injury or damage. The liver is located in the right side of the abdomen below the diaphragm and performs many vital functions, such as filtering the blood and producing bile. Liver inflammation is a global health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. In this article, we will discuss liver inflammation in detail, the available treatment and prevention methods, as well as provide important tips and guidelines.
Basic functions of the liver:
- Production of blood platelets.
- Production of important proteins such as albumin and blood clotting factors.
- Regulation of fat levels: Helps in storing fat and breaking it down when needed.
- Production of bile juice: A fluid that aids in the digestion of fats and the absorption of vitamins.
- Blood purification: Filtering the blood of toxins and harmful substances.
- Metabolism: The metabolism of fats and carbohydrates and the conversion of nutrients into energy.
- Storage of minerals and vitamins: Such as A and D and B12, and minerals like iron and copper.
Types of liver inflammation:
1. Viral hepatitis, which is the most widespread and includes:
- Hepatitis A: It is transmitted through contaminated food or drink and this type is considered less dangerous.
- Hepatitis B: It is transmitted through body fluids such as blood, saliva, and semen.
- Hepatitis C: It is primarily transmitted through blood, unprotected sexual contact, and sharing needles. This type often leads to serious complications.
2- Non-viral hepatitis and includes:
- Toxic hepatitis: A result of consuming large quantities of alcohol or drugs.
- Autoimmune hepatitis: The immune system attacks the liver abnormally, leading to inflammation and destruction of liver cells.
Symptoms of hepatitis:
Symptoms of hepatitis vary depending on the type and severity, but some common symptoms include:
- Feeling tired and exhausted.
- Abdominal pain in the upper right quadrant.
- Jaundice of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels.
- Fever at times.
- Weight loss.
- Feeling of nausea.
- Pain in muscles and joints.
- Darkening of urine color and lightening of stool color.
-Severe symptoms :
- Hemorrhage in the digestive system and skin.
- Confusion and disorientation due to blood poisoning.
- Liver failure may occur in severe cases.
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
To prevent liver inflammation:
Preventing liver inflammation is of utmost importance. Here are some tips for prevention:
- Vaccination: It is recommended to bevaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
- Avoid consuming alcohol.
- Avoid harmful candles and excessive intake of medications.
- Maintain a healthy diet.
- Avoid risky behaviors such as needle sharing and sexual contact.
- Practice general hygiene: wash handsregularly, avoid contact with blood and bodily fluids.
Treatment for hepatitis :
- The first type of viral hepatitis treatment is through :
- Antiviral drugs such as hepatitis C and B.
Interferon therapy for the treatment of hepatitis C and B.
- The combined therapy, which is a mixture of the first and second types.
- Using corticosteroids for the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis.
- Adopting a healthy diet.
- Avoid consuming alcohol and harmful drugs.
General Tips:
1. Comfort.
2. Good nutrition.
Avoid stress.
Medical follow-up.
Routine examinations.
Adherence to treatment.
Consult a specialist doctor to determine the most suitable treatment for your condition based on the diagnosis and other health issues