Our liver is the largest gland (about 3 pounds) of our body and is located on the right side of our abdominal cavity just beneath the diaphragm. It is an irregular shaped exocrine gland that performs a host of functions for our body. Some of the functions are conversion of glucose to glycogen, production of hormone, protein synthesis, detoxification, bile production, storage of minerals and vitamins. Once liver is permanently damaged, there is no way one can replace it.

When liver becomes inflamed and swelled commonly due to viral infection, we call it hepatitis. The word hepatitis is derived from Greek word ‘hepar’ means liver and Latin word ‘itis’ means inflammation. Hepatitis impairs the ability of the liver to function properly causing temporary or permanent liver damage, sometimes leading to death.

Types of Hepatitis

Till today, 5 different types of viral hepatitis are known. These are – hepatitis A, B, C, D and E.

Causes of Hepatitis

Apart from viral infections, there are many causes of hepatitis. These are as under:

• Regular and excessive alcohol consumption
• Side effects of certain drugs or medications
• Exposure to toxins
• Metabolic disorders like Wilson’s disease
• Disorders of pancreas and gallbladder
• Genetically defective immune system (Autoimmune disorders)

Symptoms of Hepatitis

Severity of hepatitis symptoms is largely dependent on the cause of illness and the extent of liver damage. Listed below are some of the common hepatitis symptoms:

• Fever
• Jaundice
• General feeling of tiredness
• Diarrhea
• Appetite loss
• Vomiting
• Muscle aches
• Pain and tenderness in the right upper abdomen