Hepatitis

Hepatitis: Things You Should Know (Questions and Answers) explains the definition, causes, symptoms, complications, diagnosis, and treatments of hepatitis in a question-and-answer format.

The book introduces hepatitis as inflammation of the liver caused mainly by viral infection, though alcohol, autoimmune disease, and medications may also play a role. It explains the structure and function of the liver, its role in metabolism, enzyme activation, bile secretion, protein synthesis, and detoxification.

Readers will learn about the main types of viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, and E), how they are transmitted, their incubation periods, and the differences in chronicity and severity. The text also highlights related conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, steatohepatitis, and encephalopathy.

Symptoms are outlined, including jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, fever, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, abdominal pain, confusion, skin rashes, and loss of appetite. Risk factors such as poor sanitation, unprotected sex, contaminated food or water, blood transfusion, shared needles, and weakened immunity are explained.

The book covers diagnostic methods such as liver enzyme tests, antibody tests, imaging, and biopsies. It also discusses treatments including antivirals, interferon, lifestyle adjustments, and dietary changes, as well as preventive steps like vaccination, safe practices, and avoiding alcohol.

This book will interest students, healthcare workers, and readers who want to learn about hepatitis, its risks, and the available options for prevention and care.