Medical Park Gebze Hospital’s Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Clinic Specialist, Dr. Yüksel Aksoy, has provided insights into the complexities of hepatitis disease and underscored the importance of maintaining liver health through appropriate dietary choices. Hepatitis, characterized by inflammation of the liver, can stem from various causes, predominantly viral infections. Dr. Aksoy has described how diverse hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, and E) have led to a global epidemic, with millions of individuals affected unknowingly, and resulting in a significant annual mortality rate of 1.3 million people.
The symptoms of hepatitis encompass weakness, fatigue, yellowing of the eyes, and darkened urine color, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting, as stated by Dr. Aksoy.
Discussing the demographic at risk, Dr. Aksoy highlighted that Hepatitis A is commonly transmitted through water and food under unsanitary conditions, leading to potential epidemics. The younger population, in particular, remains vulnerable due to a lack of vaccination against Hepatitis A. On the other hand, Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) can cause chronic liver conditions, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer over time. In Turkey, approximately 4-5 percent of the population is afflicted with chronic hepatitis B, with 0.5 percent suffering from chronic hepatitis C. Dr. Aksoy alerted that Hepatitis B spreads through infected blood, blood products, sexual contact, and transmission from an infected mother to a newborn. Hepatitis C is similarly transmitted through infected blood and blood products but predominantly through direct contact.
Dr. Aksoy also highlighted that Hepatitis D virus (HDV) only affects those with concurrent HBV infection, while Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is transmitted via fecal contact and is more prevalent among adults. In pregnant women, HEV can lead to severe complications including increased miscarriage risk, premature birth, and severe liver failure.
Detection of hepatitis is facilitated through blood tests, with elevations in liver enzymes serving as crucial indicators, according to Dr. Aksoy.
Dr. Aksoy stressed that vaccination is available for Hepatitis A and B viruses and encouraged individuals to undergo blood tests for disease detection and potential vaccination. He emphasized the significance of light, liver-friendly meals for those suffering from hepatitis, advising reduced protein and fat intake.
Regarding treatments, Dr. Aksoy highlighted the advancement in antiviral treatments for Hepatitis C, rendering it a highly treatable disease. Advanced antiviral treatments are also effective against the harmful effects of Hepatitis B. However, no antiviral treatments have been developed for Hepatitis A and E, as they tend not to become chronic. Supportive treatments are administered during the disease phase for these two types.
As developments in treatment methodologies continue, the importance of nutritional awareness and preventive measures remains paramount for those afflicted with hepatitis.
