Before discussing ways to prevent hepatitis, it should be understood that the different strains that exist (A,B,C and D) are different in many ways and can be prevented by taking different precautions.
During the last few years the World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded a significant increase in patients getting hepatitis, so any form of prevention should be contemplated. For example, in the early 2000s the implementation of the hepatitis B vaccine drastically reduced the number of cases.
Before discussing the various ways to prevent the spread of hepatitis, we must understand what it is. It is an inflammatory disease of the liver that affects its functioning and can be acute or chronic.
This liver disease can develop as a consequence of excessive consumption of substances such as drugs or alcohol. In addition, it can also be infectious in nature and can be contracted by the appearance of a microorganism.
Possible symptoms
Of course, since there are different types of hepatitis, there will be symptoms that characterize each one, although some of them are general and more common in hepatic patients:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain or pain in the abdominal area.
- Fatigue
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
- Dark colored urine
- Fever
Now, some of the main causes of hepatitis infection are drinking unsafe water and eating food contaminated with the feces or blood of an infected person. There is also the use of intravenous drugs with shared injectors, eating raw seafood and direct contact with a person who has the virus.
Hepatitis B can be contracted through contact with blood, sperm or vaginal secretions during sexual intercourse. It can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth.
Hepatitis C can be contracted through piercing or tattooing performed in unsanitary conditions. As well as accidental punctures, which could happen to healthcare workers. The same happens when sharing personal use devices, such as shavers, toothbrushes, etc.
As for hepatitis D, it only develops in cases where the patient has previously contracted hepatitis B. Therefore, vaccination against B is the most effective way to prevent the development of the D strain.
How to prevent hepatitis?
There are different ways to prevent hepatitis, but specifically in types A and B it can be done through vaccination. In turn, keep your hands well disinfected after going to the bathroom, as well as clean the food you are going to eat. At the moment, there is no specific vaccine for hepatitis C, D and E.
In addition, it is recommended to have sex with a condom and not to share any type of personal item. In case of tattoos and piercings, try to do it in a hygienic and professional place.
It is advisable to avoid alcohol intake, maintain a balanced and healthy diet, exercise and stay adequately hydrated. Food hygiene is the main ally to avoid different types of hepatitis.
In case of presenting any of the above mentioned symptoms, consult a specialist.