Hepatitis is of course a disease that is known to many people. Please note that hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver caused by viral infections, excessive alcohol consumption, certain toxins, and other medical conditions. There are several types of hepatitis viruses that are most commonly known, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each with different modes of transmission, symptoms, and treatment methods. As in hepatitis B and C it can become chronic causing complications such as liver cancer.
Although some types of hepatitis can be prevented through vaccination, such as hepatitis A and B, it is important to take additional precautions such as maintaining cleanliness, using sterile needles, and undergoing regular health tests. Early treatment and appropriate treatment can help manage this disease and prevent further complications. But unfortunately, there are still many myths and misunderstandings about hepatitis. To help you understand this disease, here are some common myths about hepatitis and true facts.
What are the Myths and Facts about Hepatitis?
1. Hepatitis Only Attacks People Who Use Drugs
This is a myth . In fact, although injecting drug use is one way of transmitting hepatitis, this disease can also be transmitted through other means. Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids. This also includes blood transfusions, unprotected sexual intercourse, and also from mother to baby during birth. On the other hand, hepatitis A is more often transmitted through sharing the same food or contaminated water.
2. Hepatitis Always Shows Obvious Symptoms
This is a myth . Many patients with chronic hepatitis B or C previously did not show any symptoms for years. Symptoms may appear only when liver damage has occurred. Acute hepatitis, such as hepatitis A, may show symptoms such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and jaundice, but not everyone will experience these.
3. Hepatitis Can Be Cured
This is a fact . Some types of hepatitis can be cured or managed well. Hepatitis B can be controlled with antiviral drugs, although it is not always cured. Hepatitis C can now be cured with effective antiviral drugs within a few weeks of treatment. Treatment of hepatitis must of course be accompanied by consultation with a professional doctor, so as to provide the best treatment for hepatitis patients.
4. Vaccination Is Not Required If There Is No High Risk
This is a myth . In fact, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent hepatitis. Hepatitis A and B vaccines are available and highly recommended, especially for those traveling to areas with high infection rates, healthcare workers, and individuals with high-risk behaviors. The purpose of vaccination is not only to protect the human body from exposure to disease, but also to prevent the spread of disease in the wider community communally.
5. All Types of Hepatitis are the Same
This is a myth . In fact, hepatitis is a general term for inflammation of the liver, but there are several types of hepatitis viruses, namely A, B, C, D, and E. Each type has a different mode of transmission, symptoms, and treatment. For example, hepatitis A is usually acute and does not become chronic, whereas hepatitis B and C can cause chronic infections and require long-term treatment.
6. Hepatitis can attack adults
This is a fact . Hepatitis is a condition that can attack anyone, including children. For example, hepatitis B can be transmitted by a previously infected mother to her baby at birth. Therefore, hepatitis B vaccination in newborns is very important to prevent this infection.
Those are some myths and facts about hepatitis that you need to know. It is important to have the correct information about hepatitis so that you can protect yourself and others from this disease. Myths can cause misunderstandings and be dangerous, disrupting prevention and treatment efforts. By understanding the facts above, we can better maintain our health and take appropriate action if necessary. Don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns about hepatitis.
Article written by dr. Dedy G. Sudrajat, Sp. PD, KGEH, FINASIM (Internal Medicine Specialist - Consultant Gastro Entero Hepatology at Grha Kedoya Hospital).