Hepatitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the liver. The liver is an important organ that helps your body absorb nutrients, filter toxins from your blood and fight infections. When the liver becomes inflamed, it may not work as well as it should.
Understanding the different types of hepatitis, how it is diagnosed and how it is treated can help you manage the condition and protect your liver health.
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Some types of hepatitis are short term and improve on their own, while others can become long term and cause lasting liver damage. If hepatitis is not treated, it can interfere with how your liver functions and lead to serious complications.
There are several types of hepatitis, including viral and nonviral forms.
There are five main types of viral hepatitis:
Not all hepatitis is caused by viruses. Other forms include:
Many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
Because symptoms may not appear for years, screening is important if you are at higher risk for hepatitis.
Certain behaviors and health conditions increase the risk of hepatitis, especially hepatitis C. You may be at higher risk if you:
It is recommended that all adults age 18 and older get screened for hepatitis C at least once.
If you have symptoms of hepatitis or risk factors for the condition, your health care provider may recommend testing. The diagnostic process depends on your symptoms, medical history and risk factors.
Testing for hepatitis may include:
Your provider will ask about your symptoms and health history and look for signs of liver disease, such as jaundice or liver tenderness.
Blood tests can help identify the type of hepatitis you have, determine whether it is acute or chronic, measure liver function and track how well treatment is working.
Imaging tests can show the size and condition of your liver and identify abnormalities.
In some cases, a liver biopsy may be needed. During this test, a small sample of liver tissue is removed using a needle guided by imaging. The sample is examined to check for inflammation, scarring or liver damage.
Treatment for hepatitis depends on the type of hepatitis you have and whether the infection is acute or chronic. Your provider will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your condition and overall health.
Most people recover within six months without specific treatment. Rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage symptoms. Hospital care may be needed in severe cases.
Acute hepatitis B often does not require treatment. Chronic hepatitis B may require long-term antiviral medications to reduce liver inflammation and slow disease progression. Regular monitoring is important.
Chronic hepatitis C is usually treated with direct-acting antiviral medications. These medications cure hepatitis C in most people, often within 8 to 12 weeks.
Hepatitis D occurs only in people with hepatitis B. Treatment options are limited, and care is often managed by a liver specialist.
Most cases clear on their own within a few weeks. People with weakened immune systems or other liver conditions may need medical care.
Treatment includes stopping alcohol use and following a nutrition plan. Severe cases may require hospital care and support from addiction specialists.
Treatment focuses on managing underlying conditions such as obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol. Weight loss, healthy eating and physical activity are key.
Treatment usually involves medications that suppress the immune system to reduce liver inflammation. Long-term treatment and monitoring are often needed.
Chronic hepatitis can lead to serious complications, including cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. In advanced cases, a liver transplant may be needed. Regular follow-up visits, blood tests and imaging help track liver health and detect problems early.
You can help protect your liver by making healthy lifestyle choices:
You can reduce your risk of hepatitis by:
Living with hepatitis can feel overwhelming, but support is available. Trusted resources include:
Hepatitis is a serious condition, but early diagnosis, proper treatment and healthy lifestyle changes can help you manage it effectively. If you think you may be at risk or have symptoms of hepatitis, talk with your health care provider about screening and care.
Sign in to Patient Account
