“Hepatitis” means inflammation of the liver. When the liver, is
inflamed or damaged, its ability to process nutrients, filter
blood, and fight infections is decreased. Hepatitis is most
often caused by a virus though it can also be caused by heavy
alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical
conditions. In the United States, the most common types of viral
hepatitis are Hepatitis A, B and C. Viral hepatitis is the
leading cause of liver cancer and the most common reason for
liver transplantation. An estimated 4.4 million Americans are
living with chronic hepatitis; most do not know they are
infected. About 80,000 new infections occur each year. Most
people who are infected with the hepatitis virus often have no
symptoms. Others have: loss of appetite, aching muscles and/or
joint pain, diarrhea, dark urine, light-colored stools, vague
abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and yellowing of the
skin and eyes (jaundice), fever or fatigue. Symptoms can range
from mild to severe. What you should do t