FAQs About Hepatitis

Hepatitis is analogous to the alphabet in that there are five major viral classifications of hepatitis: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Each variety of hepatitis is the result of a different virus. Hepatitis is an inflammatory liver disease commonly caused by a viral infection. However, other causes of hepatitis include autoimmune hepatitis and hepatitis caused by medications, drugs, toxins, or alcohol. Autoimmune hepatitis develops when your body produces antibodies against your liver tissue. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 354 million people worldwide have become infected with chronic hepatitis B and C. Hepatitis is curable and preventable. At Gastroenterology Associates, our physicians can address your concerns about hepatitis in Hagerstown, MD, during a visit to our office.

FAQs About Hepatitis

We've compiled a list of questions about hepatitis in Hagerstown, MD. If yours isn't listed, please give our office a call.

How Can I Prevent Hepatitis?

You can avoid contracting this virus by getting immunized against HAV and HBV, practicing safe sex, frequently washing your hands, exercising caution when getting piercings and tattoos, and traveling to underdeveloped areas. When traveling, always drink bottled water.

What Are the Symptoms? 

Hepatitis symptoms can be perplexing, ranging from mild, transient flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever and fatigue) to more classic ones, such as jaundice and dark urine—or even none. Early symptoms may include nausea, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, or fever.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Depending on the type, treatment may include self-care practices such as getting enough rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding alcohol, antiviral medication, or corticosteroids.

You can avoid contracting hepatitis viruses by limiting your exposure to hepatitis-infected substances. One way to avoid contracting hepatitis A and E is to practice good hygiene. Hepatitis B, C, and D viruses can spread through bodily fluids containing these infectious agents, as in sharing someone's toothbrush. If you have hepatitis in Hagerstown, MD, and want to learn more about your treatment options, schedule an appointment with one of our physicians at Gastroenterology Associates. If you have additional questions or want more information about this inflammatory liver condition, contact our office at (301) 733-4404.

Hours of Operation

Monday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Tuesday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Wednesday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Friday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

Monday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed