Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that occurs when the liver becomes injured or infected, often resulting in long-term damage if left untreated. With various causes and types, hepatitis is a condition that not only affects the individual but can also pose risks to those around them—making early detection and prevention essential.

Understanding Hepatitis and How It Spreads

Hepatitis comes in many forms, with viral hepatitis being the most common and contagious. There are different types of hepatitis from Hepatitis A, usually transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person; Hepatitis B, which spreads through bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions, and can also be transmitted from parent to child during childbirth, and Hepatitis C and D, often transmitted through contaminated blood or blood products.

While viral hepatitis is the most well-known, there are other forms of hepatitis, such as alcoholic hepatitis, which is caused by long-term heavy alcohol use; toxic hepatitis, which is triggered by exposure to certain chemicals or medications; and autoimmune hepatitis, a chronic condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells.

Why Early Detection Matters

Hepatitis often goes unnoticed in its early stages, with many patients experiencing little to no symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, it can lead to more serious signs such as fatigue, confusion, or drowsiness, itchy skin, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark-colored urine and light-colored stools, even sudden weight loss and abdominal pain. 

If not diagnosed and managed early, hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, or even liver cancer.

Advanced Testing and Safe Blood Transfusions at St. Luke's

To protect patients from transfusion-related infections, St. Luke's Medical Center utilizes Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT)—a cutting-edge method that detects the DNA or RNA of viruses such as Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV), even during the window period when antibodies are not yet detectable.

This highly sensitive approach ensures that all blood used for transfusions is thoroughly screened and safe, minimizing the risk of transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs). At St. Luke's, patient safety always comes first.

Comprehensive Hepatitis Care at St. Luke's Medical Center

St. Luke's offers a holistic and advanced approach to diagnosing, managing, and treating hepatitis and liver-related diseases. Our world-class facilities and expert care team provide access to ultrasound with Color Doppler Imaging, Spiral CT (Triphasic and Dynamic CT), Liver Biopsy, ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), and other specialized procedures. 
    
These technologies can accurately detect, assess, and manage even the most complex liver conditions.

Don't Wait for Symptoms—Act Now

If you experience unexplained fatigue, appetite loss, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, consult your physician at St. Luke's Medical Center. Timely screening and expert care can prevent complications and protect your health and those around you.

Remember, hepatitis can spread silently—often before symptoms even begin. Early detection saves lives.
 

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