Hepatitis E, also known as Hepatitis E (HEV), is a viral disease that affects the liver. This virus causes acute liver inflammation, and is usually transmitted by contaminated food and water. Hepatitis E usually resolves on its own without any long-term complications. However, it may cause severe liver disease in certain cases. This is especially true for pregnant women or those with weak immune systems. Early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Hepatitis E are dependent on understanding the symptoms and causes.
Causes and symptoms of Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E (HEV) is the virus that causes it. There are four main genotypes of HEV in humans. The virus is transmitted mainly through the fecal oral route. This means that it spreads whenever contaminated fecal material enters food or water supplies. Here are the most common causes of Hepatitis-E infection:
1. Contaminated water sources :- Drinking or consuming contaminated water containing fecal matter is one of the main causes of Hepatitis E. In developing regions, outbreaks are more likely to occur due to poor sanitation and lack access of clean drinking water.
2. Consumption Contaminated food :- The virus can be transmitted by eating raw or undercooked meat from animals infected with the virus, such as wild boars and deer. Some genotypes are zoonotic. This means they can be spread from animals to people.
3. Poor Hygiene and Sanitation Practices :- Hepatitis virus spread is caused by improper sanitation, such as not washing hands after using the toilet and handling food. Infection is more likely to occur in people who live in areas that have poor waste disposal systems.
4. Person-to-Person transmission (Rare cases) :- Hepatitis E is rare but can be spread by close contact with a person infected. It is more prevalent in places with poor hygiene, like overcrowded refugee camp or poorly maintained health care facilities.
5. Blood Transfusions and Organ Transplants :- Hepatitis E is rarely transmitted by infected blood or organ transplants. This is especially true in countries with a low prevalence of HEV.
6. Vertical Transmission of Disease from Mother to child :- Hepatitis-infected pregnant women can transmit the virus to their unborn baby. The infection can cause severe complications in such cases, including liver failure, increased mortality rates, and other serious conditions.
Hepatitis E Symptoms
Hepatitis E symptoms can vary depending on an individual’s age, overall health, and immune response. In some cases, infection is asymptomatic. This means that the infected person may not show any symptoms. When symptoms do develop, they usually appear between 2 and 10 weeks following exposure to the virus. Here are some of the most common Hepatitis E symptoms:
1. Fatigue and weakness :- Hepatitis E can cause persistent fatigue and lack of energy that makes it difficult to carry out daily activities. The liver is unable to produce essential proteins and detoxify blood.
2. Jaundice (Yellowing skin and eyes) :- Jaundice is one of the most common symptoms of Hepatitis E. It occurs when liver dysfunction causes bilirubin to build up in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that’s produced from the breakdown of red cells.
3. Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite :- Hepatitis E is associated with gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. If not managed properly, these symptoms can lead to dehydration or weight loss.
4. Abdominal pain and discomfort :- The liver is located in the upper right part of the abdomen.
5. Fever and Flu Like Symptoms :- Hepatitis E is often accompanied by mild fever, headaches, and body aches. This makes it look like a common viral infection or flu.
6. Dark Urine and Pale Stains :- The liver can malfunction, leading to dark urine, pale or clay colored stools and an improper digestion of fats.
7. Itchy skin (Pruritus) :- Itching can be caused by liver dysfunction in some individuals with Hepatitis.
8. Liver Enlargement (Hepatomegaly) :- Some cases of liver enlargement can be caused by inflammation and cause discomfort in the upper abdomen.
9. Severe cases: Liver failure and neurological symptoms :- Hepatitis E, in rare and severe cases and especially among immunocompromised people and pregnant women can cause acute liver failure, confusion or seizures.
High-Risk groups for Severe Hepatitis E infection
Some individuals may be at greater risk for severe complications, even though most cases of Hepatitis-E resolve on their own.
1. Pregnant Woman :- Women who are pregnant, particularly in the third trimester of pregnancy, have a higher risk for developing acute liver failure. This can be fatal.
2. Immunocompromised individuals :- Individuals with weakened immune systems such as those with HIV/AIDS and organ transplant recipients are more susceptible to chronic Hepatitis infections.
3. Elderly individuals :- Older people may suffer from more severe symptoms or a prolonged illness.
4. People with Liver Diseases :- People with liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis A/B/C or hepatitis C are at a higher risk of developing liver failure.
Prevention of Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E is not a vaccine that is widely available in most countries. Therefore, prevention depends heavily on sanitation and good hygiene.
- Purified, boiled or bottled water is the only option to drink, particularly in areas where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats, especially pork, venison and wild game.
- Before eating or using the toilet, wash your hands thoroughly in soapy water.
- Wash fruits and vegetables prior to consumption.
- In medical settings, ensure that all blood products and transplants are tested for Hepatitis E.
Conclusion
Hepatitis E, a virus infection that is spread primarily through contaminated food and water, affects millions of people around the world. Although most cases are resolved without any long-term effects, complications can occur in immunocompromised people and pregnant women. Early recognition of symptoms and preventative measures such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contaminated sources of water can reduce the risk. Hepatitis-E outbreaks can be controlled by increasing public awareness and improving sanitation. This will lead to improved outcomes for the health of the general population.
