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HEPATITIS
Treatment |
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Hepatitis A |
There is no specific treatment for HAV (Hepatitis "A" Virus) and most people fight off the virus
naturally, returning to full health within a couple of months. It is recommended
to avoid alcohol and fatty foods as these can be hard for the liver to process
and may exacerbate the inflammation.
Hepatitis A immunization is given in a series of injections. The first single
injection in the arm gives protection for a year. The second booster injection
at 6 to 12 months extends protection for up to 10 years. |
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Hepatitis B |
In most of patients with active HBV (Hepatitis "B" Virus), symptoms will not be severe and
treatment will not be required. The patient will be monitored and after a few
months the patient’s immune system should fight off the virus, giving the
patient natural immunity.
The virus is more deadly to the young and those that are infected at birth have
a 25% chance of developing a life-threatening liver-related illness.
Antiviral medication is given as treatment to those with chronic symptoms to
help prevent further liver damage.
Regardless of whether the infection is producing symptoms or not, the patient
will be advised to avoid alcohol, get plenty of rest and maintain a healthy
diet. Three immunization injections are given over a period of 3-6 months. |
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Hepatitis C |
HCV (Hepatitis “C” virus) requires an antiviral drug therapy. There are 6
genotypes of hepatitis C. Therefore, treatment must target the genotype
discovered in the patient. Most common combination of drugs are:
- Pegylated interferon alfa-2b, and
- Ribavirin |
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Hepatitis D |
There are no drugs that can effectively treat HDV (Hepatitis “Delta”
virus). Treatments remain supportive. For patients with severe liver disease,
transplantation should be an option.
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Hepatitis E |
HEV (Hepatitis “E” virus) usually resolves on its own. There is no effective
treatment for HEV but prevention that relies on good sanitation and accesibility
to clean drinking water.
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More information: |
Hepatitis
Description
Hepatitis
Healthcare Centers
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