Hepatitis, How to Reduce Your Risk

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Your liver is one of your hardest working organs. It filters your blood, helps digest food, stores energy and processes medicines. Hepatitis can be caused by viruses, alcohol, some medicines and other conditions. Viral hepatitis is the most common type, and the good news is that some types can be prevented with vaccines.

The main types of viral hepatitis

There are several hepatitis viruses. The three most common in the United States are:

• Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food or water or close contact. It usually does not become long term
• Hepatitis B spreads through blood, sex, and from mother to baby at birth. It can become a long term infection
• Hepatitis C spreads mainly through blood, such as shared needles. It often becomes long term, but treatment is available that can cure most people

Many people with hepatitis B or C do not have symptoms for years. Over time, long term infection can damage the liver.

Get vaccinated

Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and hepatitis B. They are safe and effective. Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all infants and for adults through age 59, and for older adults with risk factors. Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for children and for many adults, including travelers to some countries. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C.

We offer hepatitis A and B vaccines at the pharmacy. Call us to check whether they are right for you and to schedule.

A vaccine today can protect your liver for years. It is one of the simplest health steps you can take.

Everyday ways to lower your risk

Wash your hands well after using the bathroom and before preparing food. When traveling, be careful with food and water. Do not share needles, razors, toothbrushes or nail clippers. Use protection during sex. Make sure tattoos and piercings are done with sterile equipment.

Testing is the only way to know if you have hepatitis B or C. Health experts recommend that all adults be tested for hepatitis C at least once, and that adults be screened for hepatitis B at least once. Pregnant people are tested during each pregnancy. Ask your doctor about testing. Early treatment can protect your liver.

Care for your liver

Limit alcohol, keep a healthy weight, and be careful with medicines. Some over the counter pain relievers can harm the liver when taken in large amounts or with alcohol. Always follow the label, and check combination cold products so you do not take the same ingredient twice. Some herbal supplements can also affect the liver. Ask us before starting anything new.

If you have hepatitis, tell every doctor and pharmacist, so your medicines can be chosen and checked with your liver in mind.

Call us at 661.941.4402 to schedule your hepatitis A or B vaccine or a free medication review.

This article is general education, not medical advice.