Breaking the stigma surrounding hepatitis

During the monsoons, we all brush up on our knowledge of typhoid, malaria and dengue. One illness that often does not get adequate awareness is hepatitis. This year, as we commemorate World Hepatitis Day on 28th July, let’s better understand what hepatitis is and break the stigma surrounding the disease.

Hepatitis is a group of viral infections that impact the liver, causing inflammation. There are several types of hepatitis viruses, namely hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Each is transmitted differently and has varied severity and long-term effects on your liver. Hepatitis B and C are the most common forms. When you leave them untreated, they can lead to chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis or cancer.

Hepatitis symptoms depend on the type and stage of the infection. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Jaundice
• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine

Some people with hepatitis do not have any symptoms, especially during the early stages. Regular screening tests help you detect and treat hepatitis early.

Although hepatitis sounds scary, you don’t need to worry. The infection is treatable, and most people make a complete recovery. The treatment options for hepatitis depend on the specific type and stage of the infection. Hepatitis A and E infections focus on alleviating symptoms and maintaining hydration. However, hepatitis B and C can become chronic conditions and require medical intervention. Antiviral medications can help manage chronic hepatitis B and C, significantly reducing the progression of liver damage and the risk of complications.

When there’s advanced liver damage, you may require a liver transplant. However, before worrying, consult a professional and get a diagnosis. Then you can better understand the disease and your treatment options.

There are various misconceptions and stigmas surrounding hepatitis. Unfortunately, they could contribute to the disease’s spread and impact the management. Let’s understand the truth and separate fact from fiction:

While hepatitis can spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, you can contract it through contaminated food, water, or inadequate sanitation. Awareness of different modes of transmission is essential to prevent the spread of the disease.

While chronic hepatitis can have long-term effects on liver health, it is vital to dispel the myth that hepatitis is untreatable. Modern advancements in medical science, antiviral medications and therapies can effectively manage the disease and prevent complications.

While sharing or using old needles can increase your risk of contracting hepatitis, exposure to infected blood can spread hepatitis as well. Healthcare workers are generally at high risk.

Awareness about hepatitis can prevent new infections, promote early detection, and ensure patients get quick access to the required care. 

Educating people about how hepatitis spreads and what they can do to prevent contracting the disease can curb its spread. Practicing safe hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items like toothbrushes and razors, and promoting vaccination against hepatitis A and B can help prevent the disease.

Encouraging individuals to undergo regular screening tests can improve early detection rates. People who exhibit symptoms should get tested and treated as soon as possible to limit damage to the liver.

Dispelling myths about the disease can build a supportive environment where people feel comfortable asking for medical help.

The treatment for hepatitis varies based on the type and severity. However, many patients who contract the disease may require hospitalisation. A health insurance policy helps alleviate treatment and hospital costs by providing coverage. A health plan helps with:

Most health insurance policies cover hospitalization, diagnostic tests, medications, consultations, and follow-up treatments. The coverage allows you to focus on recovery instead of worrying about high healthcare costs.

Several health plans take care of related costs for 30 days before hospitalization and up to 90 days after. The coverage helps with costs incurred during treatment and recovery.

Health insurance companies have a list of network hospitals where you benefit from cashless claims. Policyholders can get treated at these hospitals without worrying about paying the entire bill. You only have to cover the co-pay and deductible amount. The insurance company settles the rest directly with the hospital.

Many policies offer discounts on health check-ups and access to counselling and wellness programmes. These benefits contribute to your overall well-being.

World Hepatitis Day is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness, combat misconceptions, and encourage preventive measures against hepatitis. When you understand the symptoms, you are able to seek immediate medical advice to get the required treatment quickly. Health insurance provides peace of mind, enabling you to focus on getting better without worrying about the cost of medical care. Prioritizing awareness and prevention can reduce the global hepatitis burden and ensure a healthier future for everybody.

ARN: Zuno/Blog/Breaking stigma surrounding hepatitis/07/23/07

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