Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by various factors, including viruses, alcohol, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases.
Tips & Links
- Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications and over the counter drugs, and certain health conditions can cause hepatitis. In some cases, hepatitis may lead to liver damage, liver failure, cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer, or even death.
- Hepatitis is most often caused by a virus (Hepatitis A, B or C) and many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected.
- Check out the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) for information on Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B.
- Know that Healthlink BC provides information on Hepatitis, including signs and symptoms, prevention and vaccinations.
- Be aware that travelling outside of Canada can put you at risk for different diseases – travel clinics can provide information and hepatitis vaccinations.
- Know whether you have been exposed to or have had infectious hepatitis. During a hospital admission, you may be asked about any potential exposure or signs of infection.
- Document any history of hepatitis, including the specific type, as well as any other infectious diseases in your personal health profile.
Tools – Handouts & Videos
Categories: My Health Information, Senior
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