Hepatitis in South Africa
When it comes to our health, most of us generally focus on the big wins like eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly, while going for the odd check-up when necessary.
Yet, there in the background is your liver, one of your body’s hardest-working organs. Each day, the liver works to filter through your blood, help process nutrients from food, and even helps to fight off infections.
However, when your liver becomes inflamed, it can signal serious problems for your health. This condition is known as hepatitis.
What causes hepatitis?
One of the more known factors that affects your liver health is alcohol, but there are other culprits, including certain medications, toxins, and viruses. In some cases, it’s even your own immune system that mistakenly attacks the liver.
Hepatitis presents as five main viral types: A, B, C, D and E. Each is transmitted in its own way and has specific symptoms.
Hepatitis A and E usually start after you consume contaminated food or water. These are typically short‑lived infections, and you can enquire about a vaccine for Hepatitis A. For Hepatitis E, you can help prevent its spread by practising good hygiene.
Hepatitis B and C are spread through blood (and Hepatitis B is also spread through sex or childbirth). Hepatitis B can turn into a long‑term illness but is preventable with a vaccine and treatable if you catch it, while C often becomes chronic, but can now be treated with antiviral drugs. Hepatitis D shows up alongside B and can cause chronic liver problems, but you can help prevent it by getting your Hepatitis B shot.
So, the positive news is that between vaccines, hygiene and modern treatments, all five types of hepatitis are preventable, treatable or curable.
Managing hepatitis
In South Africa, many people are affected by hepatitis and may not even realise it. Information from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), highlights, “[i]n particular, types B and C lead to chronic disease in millions of people and, together, are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis and cancer.”
First, pay attention to obvious symptoms: fatigue, diarrhoea, feeling weak, fever, nausea and lack of appetite, and pain on the right side of your upper stomach. Some people also experience itchy or yellow skin, confusion and drowsiness, or dark-coloured urine.
Next, if you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to get tested. Go to a doctor or clinic for blood tests that will reveal whether you have Hepatitis B or C. Remember – the sooner you get tested, the better your chances of preventing further liver damage.
No matter which type of hepatitis you have, healthy lifestyle choices are always a good idea to support your treatment and improve your quality of life. Fill up on plenty of fruit and vegetables, swap white rice and bread for wholegrain versions, and stay active!
Limit alcohol or avoid it completely, as alcohol adds extra stress to your liver. Drink plenty of water and get enough sleep to help your body stay healthy and strong.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.