What is Hepatitis Virus?
Hepatitis Virus is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. There are several types, including Hepatitis A Virus (HAV), B (HBV), C (HCV), D (HDV), and E (HEV), each with different modes of transmission, severity, and treatment.
In Thailand, the most common are Hepatitis B and C viruses, which are major causes of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
How are the different types of hepatitis viruses transmitted?
- Hepatitis A Virus (HAV)
Transmitted through contaminated food and water. This type does not cause chronic infection but causes acute symptoms such as jaundice and yellowing of the eyes. - Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
Transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child. It is common in Thai people, and if infected from childhood, there is a high chance of developing chronic hepatitis. - Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
Transmitted through blood, such as sharing needles or receiving unscreened blood. Most infected individuals show no symptoms but may develop cirrhosis or liver cancer over time. - Hepatitis D Virus (HDV)
Occurs only in those already infected with hepatitis B virus, making the disease more severe. - Hepatitis E Virus (HEV)
Transmitted through contaminated food and water, found in some countries. It rarely becomes chronic except in pregnant women, where it can be severe.
Symptoms to watch for
In the early stage, hepatitis virus infection may show no symptoms. However, as liver inflammation worsens, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue, easy tiredness
- Loss of appetite, nausea
- Pain under the right rib cage
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Jaundice, yellowing of the eyes
If you have these symptoms, you should see a doctor promptly for blood tests and detailed liver examination.
Dangerous complications
Hepatitis viruses, especially types B and C, if not properly treated, can lead to chronic conditions and serious diseases, including:
- Chronic hepatitis – continuous destruction of liver cells
- Cirrhosis – loss of liver elasticity and decreased function
- Liver cancer – the most severe outcome, commonly found in those unknowingly chronically infected
Prevention and treatment
- Vaccination – especially for hepatitis B virus, which has a highly effective vaccine
- Annual health check-ups – blood tests for infection and liver function
- Medication treatment – such as antiviral drugs for hepatitis B and C patients to reduce viral load and slow liver damage
- Liver health care – avoid alcohol, control weight, and eat a healthy diet
The Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Center at Phyathai 1 Hospital is ready to care for those at risk or who want to be tested for hepatitis virus infection, with a team of specialized doctors and modern diagnostic tools.
- Detailed blood tests and risk assessment
- Ultrasound or endoscopy when further diagnosis is needed
- Personalized treatment planning by liver specialists
- Continuous monitoring to reduce the risk of serious diseases
Hepatitis virus is a silent threat close to you. Many people may be infected without knowing it, and if left untreated for a long time, it can become chronic disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. The best prevention is screening and vaccination.
If you are at risk or concerned about your liver health, do not delay. Come for testing at the Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Center, Phyathai 1 Hospital because early testing and treatment are the keys to keeping you safe from serious diseases in the future.
For more information
Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Center
Building 1, 3rd Floor, Phyathai 1 Hospital
Tel. 02-201-4600 ext. 2176
