Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver usually caused by an acute viral infection. There are many causes of hepatitis, some more serious than others, these include medication side effects, excessive alcohol, some types of toxic chemicals, disorders of the gall bladder or pancreas, and infections.

One of the major signs of hepatitis is jaundice.

Symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the cause of the illness and how much of the liver has been damaged. In mild cases, many people do not show any symptoms at all or may have flu like symptoms that can include:

  • diarrhoea
  • fever
  • loss of appetite
  • muscle aches
  • nausea
  • tiredness
  • vomiting
Glossary