What should you know about ano ang pagkakaiba ng hepatitis a at b?

Hepatitis A commonly causes a short-term infection and does not usually become a long-term liver infection. Hepatitis B can also be short-term, but it may persist and damage the liver over time. Either infection can cause feeling generally unwell, nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, abdominal discomfort, or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Dark urine can be a sign of liver inflammation, but symptoms alone cannot identify the virus.

Hepatitis A is linked mainly to faecal contamination and close contact or unsafe food and water. Hepatitis B is linked to infected blood or body fluids, including transmission during birth or through unprotected sex and shared injecting equipment.

Arrange medical assessment if hepatitis is possible, particularly after a relevant exposure or when jaundice, nausea, or dark urine develops. A liver function test may show inflammation, although additional tests are needed to identify the virus. Avoid sharing razors or toothbrushes, and do not donate blood while an infection is being assessed. Hepatitis A vaccination can help prevent hepatitis A; ask about hepatitis B prevention separately.

Seek prompt advice for yellow skin or eyes, persistent vomiting, worsening abdominal pain, unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty staying hydrated. Urgent care is needed for severe confusion, fainting, vomiting blood, or black stools. Tell a clinician about recent travel, household or sexual exposure, pregnancy, medicines, and any possible blood contact.

Ask which hepatitis tests are needed, whether your liver function needs monitoring, how to protect household contacts, and which vaccinations or follow-up appointments apply to your situation.