Hepatitis and Liver Failure
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus or other agent. It can range from a mild, short-term illness to a serious, long-term condition. In some cases, hepatitis can lead to liver failure, which is when the liver can no longer function properly.
Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are the three most common forms of hepatitis that can lead to liver failure.
Hepatitis A is an infection caused by a virus that is spread through contaminated food or water. It is usually a mild illness and can be treated with a vaccine. In rare cases, however, it can lead to liver failure.
Hepatitis B is a virus that is spread through contact with infected blood or body fluids. It can range from a mild illness to a long-term infection that can cause liver failure or cancer. It is treatable with medications, and a vaccine is available to prevent it.
Hepatitis C is a virus that is spread through contact with infected blood. It is a serious and potentially fatal illness that can cause liver failure or cancer. It is treatable with medications, but there is no vaccine available to prevent it.