Hepatitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the liver and
interferes with its normal function. Hepatitis can be caused by
infection (usually by a virus), excessive alcohol use, medicine,
or a problem with the immune system. The three most common types
of viral hepatitis are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis
C. Viral hepatitis is contagious. All three types of viral
hepatitis (A, B, and C) can be spread through contact with body
fluids. Hepatitis A can also spread when people consume food or
water contaminated by stool (feces) containing the virus.
Symptoms of hepatitis can last for weeks to months. They
include: Some types of hepatitis can cause serious, long-term
complications, such as severe and permanent liver damage.
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