Hepatitis
Frequently Asked Questions
None Available At This Time
Description
Hepatitis means an inflammation of the liver. An inflammation is the painful, red swelling that occurs when tissues become injured or infected, and can cause organs to not function properly.
There are different kinds of hepatitis, caused by viruses.
Hepatitis A usually gets better within a few weeks without treatment. Usually, getting lots of rest and avoiding alcohol will be sufficient, but if symptoms persist you should see a doctor.
Hepatits B and hepatitis C are usually not treated unless they become chronic. If chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C causes liver failure, a liver transplant may become necessary.
(Image used by permission of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health.)
Sources of Additional Information
- The American College of Gastroenterology
- Viral Hepatitis
- (An overview of hepatitis, symptoms, and treatments.)
- American Gastroenterological Association
- Hepatitis
- (An overview of the forms of hepatitis, the symptoms, treatment, and prevention.)
- Medline Plus
- Hepatitis
- (An overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatment of hepatitis.)
