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Hepatitis Awareness

Jul 28th, 2023

Archive for July, 2023

Hepatitis Awareness

Friday, July 28th, 2023

Suspect a liver infection? Get yourself tested for hepatitis. Recent statistics suggest that India has around 4 crore people infected with hepatitis B and about 1.2 crore people infected with hepatitis C. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a wide variety of infectious viruses. It is a widespread and potentially life-threatening liver infection that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding hepatitis is crucial for prevention, early diagnosis, and appropriate management to reduce the burden of this disease.

Types of Hepatitis:

There are five main types of hepatitis: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis D, and Hepatitis E.

  • Hepatitis A
    Hepatitis A is usually contracted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. It is prevalent in areas with poor sanitation and is commonly associated with travel to certain regions. Symptoms of Hepatitis A may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A, and the infection typically resolves on its own. Supportive measures like rest and proper hydration are recommended.
  • Hepatitis B
    Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood, bodily fluids, sexual contact or from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth. Hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver disease, and some individuals may become carriers of the virus without showing symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications and reduce the risk of transmission. Antiviral medications are available to manage chronic Hepatitis B and prevent liver-related complications. Vaccination is essential to prevent Hepatitis B infection.
  • Hepatitis C
    Hepatitis C is mainly spread through contact with infected blood, often through the sharing of needles by intravenous drug users. It can also be transmitted through unsafe medical practices, such as blood transfusions before screening measures were implemented. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Timely diagnosis and advances in antiviral medications have significantly improved the treatment outcomes for Hepatitis C.
  • Hepatitis D
    Hepatitis D only occurs in individuals who are already infected with Hepatitis B. It is considered one of the most severe forms of hepatitis. It is transmitted through contact with infected blood and sexual contact. Preventing Hepatitis B infection is the key to avoiding Hepatitis D. Treatment options for Hepatitis D are limited, and management often involves treating the underlying Hepatitis B infection.
  • Hepatitis E
    Hepatitis E is typically transmitted through the consumption of contaminated water, similar to Hepatitis A. While it is generally self-limiting, pregnant women infected with Hepatitis E are at a higher risk of severe complications, including mortality.

Prevention of Hepatitis

Here are some helpful healthy living practices to reduce your risk of hepatitis:

  • Vaccination
    Vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent these infections and their complications.
  • Safe Hygiene
    Practicing good hygiene, especially handwashing, can prevent the spread of Hepatitis A and E.
  • Safe Sexual Practices
    Using barrier methods such as condoms during sexual activity can reduce the risk of contracting Hepatitis B and C.
  • Avoiding Sharing Needles
    Intravenous drug users should never share needles or other equipment to prevent the transmission of Hepatitis B and C.

Hepatitis care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Have you been experiencing stomach ache, loss of appetite, or seeing jaundice like yellow eyes and skin? It is time you get a complete liver check-up done and rule out any signs of hepatitis. Understanding the types, modes of transmission, and available treatment options for hepatitis is crucial in curbing the spread of this infectious disease. Consult experts at our Department of Hepato Pancreato Biliary for a detailed diagnosis and prompt treatment for hepatitis. For further information, please visit: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/hepatopancreatobiliary.html

Tips to combat Cold and Flu

Wednesday, July 12th, 2023

As the weather changes and the humid and windy monsoon season sets in, the risk of catching a cold or flu increases. Body aches, fever, chills and nasal congestion can make you feel miserable and affect your daily lives. You body’s immunity is at its lowest during the rainy season making you even more susceptible to seasonal viral infections.

The best way to prevent seasonal flu and its potentially dangerous complications is to get vaccinated every year, but good health habits like avoiding sick people, covering your cough, and washing your hands frequently can also help stop the spread of germs and avert respiratory illnesses like the flu. If you have already been infected by cold or flu it will take some time to heal. However, some home remedies can help ease your symptoms and slightly reduce the length of time you are sick.

Health tips to combat Cold and Flu

Here are some helpful tips to follow:

  • Drink lots of fluids
    Drinking enough fluids can thin your mucus and make it easier for you to drain it from your nose and sinuses. Fluids also help to keep the mucous membranes lubricated, which help soothe the nasal congestion.
  • Wash your hands frequently
    One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses is by washing your hands frequently. Make it a habit to use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces that may be contaminated.
  • Take enough rest
    Your body needs to sleep in order to rest and recover. According to research, your body produces cytokines while you’re sleeping, which are vital for battling inflammation and infection. Rest as much as possible to help your body fight cold and flu viruses.
  • Use saline nasal drops and sprays
    Non-medicated nasal saline sprays can help to relieve congestion from a cold and ease your breathing. A saline nasal spray helps to keep nasal passages moist by washing out any thick or dried mucus.
  • Add moisture to the air
    Use a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture back into the air while you sleep. Dry air is known to cause irritation inside nose and throat.
  • Take steam
    The next time you have a cold that gives you a stuffy nose, try taking a steam inhalation. This will help make the mucus thinner and make it drain easily.
  • Practice respiratory hygiene 
    Cold and flu viruses are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. To protect yourself and others, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
  • Adjust your sleeping position
    When you go to bed, try propping your head up with pillows to help gravity work better for you and help you sleep better. Do sleep at a sloped angle which allows the fluid in your sinuses to keep flowing and avoids congestion.
  • Drink warm liquids
    It is best to include warm herbal teas and kadhas to help relieve cold, cough and sore-throat symptoms and soothe the inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat. 
  • Eat foods that support your immune system
    A strong immune system plays a crucial role in defending your body against infections. Incorporate immunity-boosting foods like foods rich in vitamin C, herbs and spices into your meals.  Examples of foods that have vitamin C include fruits like lemons, mangoes, oranges, strawberries, red peppers, broccoli, and other fruits and vegetables.

Remember to wash your hands regularly, practice respiratory hygiene, boost your immune system, stay hydrated and maintain a healthy environment to help heal at the earliest from your seasonal infection. However if the symptoms don’t improve or you have trouble breathing, rapid heartbeat, faintness, or any severe symptoms, reach out to doctors at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital at the earliest. Please find below our website details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com