Hepatitis A & B

Daniel Greisen

Mr. Holley

3rd Period

11-12-10

Definition

a type of liver inflammation that is mainly spread through contact with blood and blood products and via sexual contact with an infected person, or carrier. (Adler).

Symptoms

The hepatitis B virus causes hepatitis B, which can lead to chronic hepatitis B and cirrhosis, followed by liver cancer. The frequency of liver cancer can be correlated with the frequency of hepatitis B infection. It is believed that the inflammatory process involving chronic hepatitis B may be a crucial factor in the development of cancer. (Alder)

How do You Get it?

Hepatitis, a pathology referring to inflammation of the liver, may result from any of a variety of causes but commonly follows bacterial or viral infection. Hepatitis may be associated with an autoimmune phenomenon in which the body produces antibodies against liver tissue. (Alder)

How To Prevent It?

Condoms and Awareness.

How to Treat It?

Treatment for the various forms of viral hepatitis is, for the most part, symptomatic and supportive. Hospitalization may be required in severe cases, but, in general, any restriction of activity is left up to the patient. This is particularly convenient, since recovery often involves a long convalescence. As long as a healthy diet is maintained, no special dietary requirements exist, but a high-calorie diet is often preferable. (Alder)

Work Cited

<Adler, Richard. "Hepatitis." Magills Medical Guide. Ed. Tracy Irons-Georges, 4th rev. ed. 5 vols. Pasadena, Calif.: Salem Press, 2008. Salem Health Web. 12 Nov. 2010.>

Journal

I don’t know anything really about hepatitis A or B but I know that they are STD’s. But I do know that STD’s are bad and some can even be life threatening. For example, Toxic Shock. I am also scared for my future life because of the possibilities that I could get one of these STD’s.