hepatitis

Understanding Hepatitis: Causes and Treatments

Viral hepatitis is a big problem, causing liver inflammation in millions worldwide1. There are five viruses that can cause different types of hepatitis: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E1. Hepatitis A is usually mild and goes away in six months1. But Hepatitis B and C can cause serious liver problems, like cancer and cirrhosis, if not treated1. Even some medicines, like acetaminophen and vitamin A, can cause hepatitis if taken too much1.

Symptoms of hepatitis include feeling tired, stomach pain, jaundice, dark urine, and swelling1. Doctors use tests, exams, and sometimes a liver biopsy to diagnose it1. There’s no cure, but new treatments help prevent liver damage and manage symptoms1.

Key Takeaways

  • Viral hepatitis is a leading cause of liver inflammation, with five main types: A, B, C, D, and E.
  • Hepatitis B and C can lead to long-term liver damage, cancer, and cirrhosis if left untreated.
  • Certain common medications can also cause drug-induced hepatitis when taken in excess.
  • Diagnosing hepatitis requires a comprehensive approach, including physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies.
  • While there is no cure, effective treatments are available to prevent further liver damage and manage symptoms.

What is Hepatitis?

Definition and Overview of Hepatitis

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver2. It can be caused by viruses, chemicals, drugs, alcohol, genetic disorders, or an overactive immune system. This can lead to either acute or chronic liver damage.

Viral hepatitis is a big health issue, with types like hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Each type has its own cause, way of spreading, and long-term effects3. Knowing about hepatitis helps us understand its seriousness and why prevention and early treatment are key.

Hepatitis can be mild or severe2. If it becomes chronic, it can cause serious liver problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer2. Getting diagnosed and treated early is vital to prevent these serious issues.

“Hepatitis is a major global health problem, with millions of people affected by the different types of viral hepatitis around the world. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial in managing this condition and preventing complications.”

Learning about hepatitis helps us protect our liver health and get the right medical care. It also helps us fight this big public health issue423.

Types of Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis includes several types, each caused by a different virus. In the U.S., the most common types are hepatitis A, B, and C5. These viruses can harm the liver and cause long-term health issues.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food or drinks, often in restaurants5. Most people get better from it within two months5.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B spreads through infected fluids, often during sex or sharing needles5. About 80% of those with hepatitis C get a chronic infection. This can lead to serious liver problems5.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C spreads through blood contact, like sharing needles, or less often, through sex5. Around 25% of people clear the virus on their own. But for others, it can cause lasting liver damage5.

Other Types (D, E, and Non-Viral)

Hepatitis D only happens in people already infected with hepatitis B6. Hepatitis E spreads through contaminated water or food, rarely from person to person6. Non-viral hepatitis can come from chemicals, drugs, alcohol, or genetic disorders6.

The CDC suggests vaccines for all kids and some adults to prevent hepatitis A and B5. To avoid hepatitis B and C, avoid blood contact, don’t share personal items, and dispose of contaminated items properly5.

“Viral hepatitis is a major global health problem, with approximately 1.4 million deaths annually.”7

Knowing about the different types of viral hepatitis and how to prevent them is key to keeping your liver healthy567.

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Risk Factors and Transmission

Hepatitis is a serious liver condition caused by contaminated blood, needles, syringes, and bodily fluids8. Knowing the risk factors and how it spreads helps prevent it.

In the U.S., the main types of hepatitis are A, B, and C8. Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food or drinks, often from poor sanitation8. Hepatitis B and C are mainly spread through infected blood, semen, or other fluids8.

Some people are more likely to get hepatitis. This includes those who use drugs, drink a lot, or work with harmful chemicals8. Traveling to places with poor sanitation also increases the risk8.

Hepatitis B and C can spread through sharing personal items like toothbrushes and needles8. Sex can also spread hepatitis B, but condoms and vaccines can help8. Keeping tattoo parlors and salons clean is important to prevent hepatitis B and C8.

Vaccines exist for hepatitis A and B, but not C8. The risk of getting hepatitis B or C from a blood transfusion is very low8. Still, we must be careful to stop the disease from spreading.

Some groups are more likely to get chronic hepatitis. Babies and young kids are more likely to get chronic hepatitis B, unlike adults9. About 75% to 85% of people with hepatitis C will have it for a long time9.

Some people are more at risk for certain types of hepatitis. For example, 20% of Americans have had hepatitis E9. Women, especially those between 15 and 40, are more likely to have autoimmune hepatitis9.

People with cancer may also be at higher risk for hepatitis B. A study by the American Society of Clinical Oncology found many cancer patients have risk factors for hepatitis B10. High-risk groups include those who are sexually active, use drugs, or have certain diseases10.

People from certain countries face a higher risk of getting hepatitis B10. Pregnant women, adopted kids, and others in high-risk groups should get tested for hepatitis B10.

Understanding hepatitis risk factors and how it spreads is key to preventing it. Knowing the risks helps people protect themselves and others8.

Source: CDC – Viral Hepatitis9Source: Medscape – Risk Factors for Chronic Hepatitis Infections10Source: National Cancer Institute – Infectious Agents and Cancer Risk

Symptoms of Hepatitis

Hepatitis affects the liver and shows different signs. Knowing these signs is key for early diagnosis and treatment11.

Early Signs and Symptoms

In the early stages, people may feel tired, have stomach pain, feel weak, feel sick to their stomach, and have a low fever11. Some might show symptoms within two weeks after getting infected, but others might not notice anything during this time12.

Advanced Symptoms and Liver Damage

As the liver gets worse, symptoms get more serious. These can include yellow skin and eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, swollen belly, and confusion11. Long-term infections can cause serious problems like cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure1112.

The severity of hepatitis can vary a lot, based on the type and the person’s health11. Spotting it early and getting medical help is key to managing it well.

“The global prevalence of hepatitis A virus infection is a significant concern, emphasizing the need for prevention, testing, and treatment strategies.”13

Hepatitis can greatly affect a person’s health. Knowing the early signs and the risk of liver damage helps people get medical care quickly and reduce risks111213.

Hepatitis Type Early Symptoms Advanced Symptoms
Hepatitis A Mild to severe, often with no noticeable symptoms1213 Can lead to liver failure, relapse, and severe illness13
Hepatitis B Symptoms can range from mild to severe, appearing 1-4 months after infection11 Chronic infection can cause cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure1112
Hepatitis C Often has no noticeable symptoms, leading to many infected individuals being unaware12 Chronic infection can cause cirrhosis and liver failure12

Understanding hepatitis helps people recognize signs and get the right medical help111213.

Diagnosis of Hepatitis

Diagnosing hepatitis takes a detailed approach. It includes physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies. These tools help figure out the type of hepatitis, how severe it is, and what treatment is needed.

Blood Tests and Imaging Studies

Blood tests are key in spotting hepatitis. They check for hepatitis viruses, look at liver enzyme levels, and tell if the infection is new or ongoing14. People at high risk, like pregnant women or those with STDs, should get tested for hepatitis B14. Getting immunoglobulin within 24 hours of exposure can prevent the virus14.

Healthcare pros might also suggest imaging like ultrasound or MRI to check the liver’s health15. These scans can spot inflammation, scarring, or signs of liver cancer.

Liver Biopsy

A liver biopsy might be needed if other tests don’t give clear results15. This means taking a small liver sample with a needle for lab analysis.

Doctors will ask about when symptoms started, any past vaccines, how bad symptoms are, and risk factors like blood transfusions or unsafe sex16. Patients should be ready for their doctor’s visit by listing symptoms, medicines, and questions about diagnosis, treatment, and prevention16.

Using blood tests, imaging, and sometimes liver biopsy, doctors can accurately diagnose hepatitis. This helps them create the right treatment plan141516.

Treatment Options for Hepatitis

Managing viral hepatitis focuses on preventing liver damage, reversing damage, and controlling symptoms17. Antiviral medications are key in treating hepatitis B and C. They help fight the disease and reduce serious side effects17.

Antiviral Medications

For chronic hepatitis B, doctors often prescribe adefovir, entecavir, interferon, and tenofovir17. These drugs slow down the hepatitis B virus, lowering the risk of liver damage and disease progression17. People with HIV or AIDS face a higher risk of liver issues due to hepatitis B17.

Direct-Acting Antivirals for Hepatitis C

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have changed hepatitis C treatment a lot in recent years17. These medications, often without interferon, have made treating hepatitis C much better, with cure rates over 90% in many cases17. DAAs eliminate the hepatitis C virus from the blood, curing the disease17.

Antiviral drugs are the main treatment for hepatitis B and C. But, managing hepatitis D and E requires different approaches17. For chronic hepatitis D, antivirals treat the hepatitis B part, as there’s no direct cure for D17. In chronic hepatitis E, antiviral ribavirin might be suggested for certain people, but watch out for side effects like rash and anemia17.

hepatitis treatment

New treatments for hepatitis, thanks to antiviral and direct-acting antivirals, bring hope for better health and quality of life17. By knowing the treatment options and working with healthcare providers, people with viral hepatitis can take charge of their health and aim for positive results17.

“The development of direct-acting antivirals has significantly improved treatment outcomes for hepatitis C, with cure rates over 90% in many cases.”

Treating viral hepatitis combines antiviral drugs, direct-acting antivirals, and specific strategies for each type of hepatitis17. Good treatment controls the disease, lowers the risk of liver problems, and boosts well-being17.

Always talk to a healthcare professional to find the best treatment for you, considering your health and history. For more info on hepatitis treatment, check out the Limited Time Offer! Fitness Coffee and Liver Detox resources17.

Hepatitis in Pregnancy

Hepatitis is a viral infection that targets the liver. It can be risky for pregnant women and their babies. Hepatitis B and E are especially concerning during pregnancy1819.

Women with hepatitis B can pass the virus to their babies. The risk is 90% if the mother has acute hepatitis B. This drops to 10-20% if the mother has chronic hepatitis B20. To lower this risk, newborns get immune globulin shots and a hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth. This helps prevent infection in over 90% of cases20.

Hepatitis E can be deadly for pregnant women, especially in the third trimester. It can kill up to 5% to 25% of pregnant women during outbreaks19. Mothers with hepatitis B may get antiviral treatment in the third trimester to lower the baby’s risk.

The risk of getting hepatitis A from a pregnant woman to her baby is low19. But, HAV can cause premature labor if caught after the first trimester18.

Good prenatal care is key. It includes screening for hepatitis and treatment. This helps keep the mother and baby healthy during pregnancy.

Hepatitis Type Transmission Risk to Newborn Complications for Pregnant Women
Hepatitis B 90% if mother has acute HBV, 10-20% if mother has chronic HBV20 Can be managed with antiviral treatment in the third trimester
Hepatitis E Not well-established Mortality rate up to 5-25% during epidemics19
Hepatitis A Rare Can lead to premature labor if contracted after first trimester18

Pregnant women with hepatitis should talk to their healthcare providers often. This ensures the best outcomes for both mom and baby. Proper screening, management, and prevention can greatly reduce hepatitis risks during pregnancy.

“Comprehensive prenatal care, including screening for hepatitis and appropriate treatment, is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and the unborn child during pregnancy.”

Remember, hepatitis in pregnancy, hepatitis B in pregnancy, and hepatitis E in pregnancy are key topics for pregnant women and their healthcare teams181920.

Preventing Hepatitis Transmission

Vaccination is key to stopping hepatitis from spreading. Kids and adults who haven’t had their shots should get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. These vaccines work well to protect against these types of hepatitis21. But, there’s no vaccine for hepatitis C, D, or E, so we need other ways to stay safe.

Safe actions are important to avoid getting hepatitis. Don’t share needles, syringes, or drug gear, and always practice safe sex21. Keeping clean and not sharing things like toothbrushes or razors can also help stop hepatitis from spreading.

Vaccination and Safe Practices

The hepatitis B vaccine is a must for babies and for people up to 59 years old who missed their shots as kids21. It usually takes two to four shots, based on the vaccine type and your health21. The hepatitis A vaccine also needs two shots, six months apart, for kids and adults who haven’t had it before21.

If you already have hepatitis, it’s important to stop it from spreading. The hepatitis B virus can stay alive outside the body for up to seven days. So, don’t share things like toothbrushes or needles21. Hepatitis C spreads through blood, so avoid sharing needles and keep clean21. Hepatitis D only affects people with hepatitis B and spreads through blood, semen, and saliva21.

By getting vaccinated and following safe habits, you can really lower your chances of getting and spreading hepatitis222321.

“Vaccination and safe practices are the most effective ways to prevent the spread of hepatitis.”

Hepatitis can be very serious and even life-threatening. But, with the right prevention and treatment, we can really reduce its impact222321.

For more info on how to prevent hepatitis, check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, or NYU Langone Health222321.

Complications of Chronic Hepatitis

Chronic hepatitis can cause serious health problems if not treated. Two major issues are cirrhosis and liver cancer24.

Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer

Chronic hepatitis, often from HCV or HBV, can turn into liver cirrhosis24. About 1 in 3 people with hepatitis C may get cirrhosis in 20 to 30 years25. Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure in 1 in 20 people each year25.

Cirrhosis also raises the risk of liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma25. People with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis are more likely to get liver cancer if not treated2425.

If liver failure happens, a liver transplant might be needed25. But, curing liver cancer is rare, especially with cirrhosis. Treatment can manage symptoms and slow the cancer’s growth25.

Early detection and treatment of chronic hepatitis can prevent or delay these serious issues24. It’s important to get regular check-ups and talk to a doctor if you’re at risk26.

“Chronic hepatitis can lead to serious complications such as liver cancer and liver failure if not diagnosed and treated promptly.”24

Hepatitis and Liver Health

Hepatitis, whether it’s acute or chronic, can really affect the liver’s health and function27. The inflammation and scarring from hepatitis can harm liver cells. This makes it hard for the liver to do its important jobs27. It’s key to keep an eye on liver health to manage hepatitis and avoid more problems.

Hepatitis A and E usually cause short-term infections that go away on their own27. But hepatitis B, C, and D can cause both short-term and long-term infections27. If not treated, chronic hepatitis can lead to serious issues like cirrhosis and liver cancer28.

Symptoms of hepatitis C might not show up until the liver is already damaged28. These symptoms include jaundice, feeling very tired, nausea, and even confusion28. Catching it early is important because new treatments can cure chronic hepatitis C28.

Chronic hepatitis B can also go unnoticed, affecting up to 30% of people without symptoms29. It can spread through childbirth, sexual contact, or sharing needles29. People with HIV are more likely to get chronic hepatitis B29.

Keeping the liver healthy is key to handling hepatitis and avoiding more issues. Regular check-ups, early action, and following treatment advice can lessen hepatitis’s effects on the liver272829.

“Protecting your liver’s health is crucial when navigating the challenges of hepatitis. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can make all the difference in managing this condition and preserving your overall well-being.”

Conclusion

Hepatitis is a serious health issue that needs our focus. This article has shown us the different types of viral hepatitis, their causes, symptoms, and treatments. It’s clear that this issue is complex and has big effects30.

Hepatitis B and C cause about 20,000 deaths each year in the U.S. and over 1 million worldwide. This is more than deaths from HIV/AIDS, road accidents, and diabetes combined30.

But, there’s hope. Medical research and treatments have gotten better, helping many hepatitis patients30. New treatments for hepatitis C can clear the infection in over 95% of patients. And, the hepatitis B vaccine gives 95% immunity, which is a big help30.

Yet, there are still challenges31. About 2.4 million people in the U.S. have chronic hepatitis B, and many don’t know they have it31. Hepatitis C treatments are also very expensive, making them hard to get for many30.

To fix this, we need a strong plan30. The World Health Organization wants to cut chronic hepatitis B and C by 90% and deaths by 65% by 2030. This could save 7.1 million lives30. We need better prevention, more testing and treatment access, and to fight the stigma around hepatitis30.

As we go forward, summary of hepatitis, key takeaways on hepatitis, hepatitis awareness will be key. By working together, we can make a big difference. We can help those with hepatitis and work towards eradicating the disease303132.

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The Liver Cleansing Diet is a vegetarian, high-fiber, low-fat, dairy-free, and minimally processed food plan for eight weeks33. The Martha’s Vineyard Detox Diet is a 21-day program with vegetable juices, soups, herbal teas, and special powders, tablets, cocktails, and digestive enzymes33. The Hubbard purification rundown includes increasing doses of niacin, various vitamins, minerals, polyunsaturated oils, and requires five hours in a hot sauna daily33.

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Liver Detox

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About 1/4th of people have fatty liver disease, and it’s getting worse because of unhealthy lifestyles and food choices34. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to liver diseases after 5 to 10 years, often after 20 to 30 years34. The liver tries to protect itself, which can hide signs like itching, indigestion, fatigue, nausea, or diarrhea. These signs can mean liver diseases like fatty liver, jaundice, cirrhosis, or carcinoma34.

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Alcohol-related liver disease includes conditions like fatty liver, acute hepatitis, and cirrhosis35. Follow the alcohol guidelines from the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: one drink a day for women and two for men35. Be careful with supplements like vitamins and herbs; they can harm the liver. Always talk to a doctor before taking them35.

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What makes Fitness Coffee stand out is its special ingredients. It includes natural compounds like indole, found in veggies, to fight fatty liver disease and boost liver health36. It also has broccoli, seaweed, and superfoods to help detox the liver and stop harmful fats from building up36.

Ingredient Nutritional Benefits
Almonds 164 calories, 6g protein, 6g carbs, 3.5g fiber, 76.5mg magnesium (18% DV), 0.04mg vitamin B6 (2.4% DV)37
Popcorn 31 calories, 1.2g fiber (4.3% DV)37
Peanut Butter 204 calories, 7.2g protein, 16.4g fat, 7.2g carbs, 1.6g fiber (5.7% DV)37
Salmon 108 calories, 17.4g protein, 3.7g fat37
Bananas 105 calories, 27g carbs, 3.1g fiber, 0.4mg vitamin B6 (23.5% DV), 422mg potassium (9% DV)37
Kale 42 calories, 4.7g fiber (17% DV), 170mg potassium (4% DV), 0.64mg manganese (28% DV)37
Oatmeal 153 calories, 5g protein, 3g fat, 27g carbs, 4g fiber (14% DV), 1.5mg manganese (65% DV), 1.7mg iron (9.4% DV)37
Pistachios 87 calories, 3g protein, 1.5g fiber (5.4% DV), 7g fat, 3.8g monounsaturated fats, 147mg potassium (3% DV), 0.164mg vitamin B6 (10% DV), 16mg magnesium (4% DV)37
Hummus 72 calories, 2g protein, 2g fiber, 6g fat, 4.4g carbs37
Greek Yogurt 17.5g protein, 19g magnesium (4.5% DV), 240mg potassium (5% DV)37

Fitness Coffee also uses natural caffeine from green tea and yerba mate for a clean energy boost36. It’s different from traditional energy supplements because it supports your overall health by helping your liver and metabolism36.

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Expert Advice on Hepatitis Management

Dealing with hepatitis can be tough, but you can take charge of your liver health with the right advice. Our team of top hepatitis experts offers personalized support and strategies to manage your condition38.

Managing hepatitis means looking at both medical and lifestyle factors. We’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your needs and life38.

No matter the type of hepatitis you have, our specialists can offer valuable advice and guidance. We’ll help you with everything from medications to diet changes, making sure you’re in charge of your health38.

Regular check-ups and tests are key for those with chronic hepatitis. Our experts will make sure you get the care you need to avoid serious problems like cirrhosis or liver cancer39.

Living with hepatitis also means making healthy choices. Our experts will give you advice on diet, exercise, and more to keep your liver healthy and you feeling good39.

Don’t let hepatitis run your life. Start taking steps towards better health by talking to our hepatitis experts. We’ll work with you to manage your condition, lower the risk of complications, and help you live your best life38.

“Effective hepatitis management requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical expertise with personalized lifestyle guidance. Our team is dedicated to empowering individuals living with this condition to achieve optimal liver health and overall well-being.”

You don’t have to face hepatitis alone. Our experts are ready to support and guide you in managing your condition and improving your health. Book your consultation today for a healthier tomorrow40.

Key Insights Recommendations
– Approximately 257 million people are living with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection globally38 – Maintain regular check-ups and routine testing for early detection and monitoring
– The annual number of deaths due to hepatitis B-related complications has reached about 887,000 in 201938 – Adhere to prescribed antiviral medications and follow treatment plans provided by healthcare professionals
– Pregnant people with HBV DNA levels exceeding 200,000 IU/ML are recommended to receive antiviral therapy to reduce perinatal HBV transmission38 – Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of substances that can damage the liver
– Individuals coinfected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HBV, undergoing direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, are at risk of HBV reactivation38 – Receive recommended vaccinations, such as hepatitis A and hepatitis B, to prevent co-infections and reduce disease burden
– Chronic hepatitis B develops in about 90% of children infected at birth, 20-50% of children infected between ages 1-5, and less than 5% of individuals infected during adulthood39 – Maintain open communication with healthcare providers and be an active participant in your care plan

With the right support and strategies, you can manage your hepatitis and live a healthy life. Don’t wait to reach out to our team of experts for personalized advice and support40.

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Additional Resources for Hepatitis Education

For more in-depth information on hepatitis, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, we recommend exploring the following reliable resources:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Hepatitis Information offers guidelines, recommendations, and training materials on all types of viral hepatitis41. The American Liver Foundation also has a lot of education and support resources, including a database of hepatitis clinical trials41.

For more support, the World Health Organization (WHO) Hepatitis Fact Sheets give detailed info on the causes, transmission, and effects of viral hepatitis41. The VA National HIV Website and the HIV/AIDS/Hepatitis C Nightline hotline offer support and resources for those affected by hepatitis, especially those with HIV coinfection41.

FAQ

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis means the liver is inflamed. It can happen for many reasons, like viruses, chemicals, or genetic issues.

What are the different types of viral hepatitis?

There are five main types: A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A is often from food and goes away on its own. Hepatitis B and C can cause serious liver problems. Hepatitis D affects people with hepatitis B, and E is mainly in certain places.

How is hepatitis transmitted?

You can get hepatitis from things like dirty needles or blood. People at risk include those who use drugs, drink too much, or work with harmful chemicals.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis?

Early signs include feeling tired, having a sore stomach, and feeling sick. Later, you might see yellow skin, dark pee, or feel confused.

How is hepatitis diagnosed?

Doctors use blood tests and imaging to find hepatitis. Sometimes, they need a liver biopsy to see how bad the damage is.

What are the treatment options for hepatitis?

Treatment helps stop liver damage and manage symptoms. For hepatitis B and C, medicines like adefovir and tenofovir work well. New treatments have made curing hepatitis C very successful.

How can hepatitis be prevented?

Vaccines can protect against hepatitis A and B. Avoid sharing needles and practice safe sex to prevent getting infected.

What are the potential complications of chronic hepatitis?

Chronic hepatitis can cause serious issues like liver cancer and cirrhosis. These problems can lead to liver failure if not treated.

Source Links

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  34. Liver Detox | Reverse Fatty Liver Naturally | Free Trial Pack – https://www.meadbery.com/products/liver-detox-free-trial-pack
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  37. 10 Healthy Snacks for Lasting Energy – https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness-pictures/energy-boosting-foods.aspx
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