• Published on: Sep 08, 2021
  • 4 minute read
  • By: Dr Rakesh Rai

What Is The Main Cause Of Hepatitis & What Happens If You Have Hepatitis?

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What is the main cause of hepatitis & What happens if you have hepatitis?

The virus is the most common cause, but auto-immune hepatitis can also occur when the body's immune system attacks and destroys its own kidney cells. Hepatitis is primarily caused by a virus, but there are many other possibilities. A viral infection is the primary cause of hepatitis. And various types of viruses can lead to hepatitis-- some fairly benign, some very serious—such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

The main cause of hepatitis is the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can also cause acute hepatitis, but they are responsible for the majority of chronic cases. Chronic hepatic problems may result in the development of cirrhosis or liver cancer, which can be ultimately fatal. It's also possible for an individual to experience co-infection with HAV and HBB/HCV without knowing it since some people infected with HAV do not show any symptoms.

                                  

The human body typically gets rid of the virus in 1-3 months or so without needing any help from drugs or therapies, but about 15% to 40% of people infected with hepatitis A see their symptoms persist for 6 months to 3 years. This can be especially hard on people who are young and otherwise healthy because it often results in interruption of school or work life, not to mention the loss of self-esteem which can damage personal relationships.

Permanently resolving this requires active participation by both doctor and patient; unfortunately, many factors combine to reduce the likelihood that someone will recover completely naturally, including an existing chronic liver disease like cirrhosis (in which case

The main cause of hepatitis is bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and chemical substances that damage the liver. The secondary causes may be alcohol abuse or chronic fatty liver disease.

A damaged or diseased liver can lead to alcoholic cirrhosis and other diseases such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and encephalopathy.

Hepatitis refers broadly to any inflammatory disorder involving the liver, a diverse organ having many functions in the body. The immune system's response damages hepatocytes - cells that form bile ducts to remove toxins from the blood, produce clotting proteins for blood clots, store energy from food in glycogen so it can be used later when glucose supply from food runs low after starvation occurs.

Some viruses, but more often a drug or toxin that irritates the liver. Drugs and other toxins that can damage the liver include industrial solvents like ammonia, industrial chemicals like benzene, alcohol, acetaminophen (Tylenol), erythromycin (mostly taken to decrease antibiotic resistance), tetracycline antibiotic with surgery concurrent antibiotics), drugs for prevention of malaria such as chloroquine plus proguanil or mefloquine with surgery concurrent clindamycin plus primaquine) and ursodeoxycholic acid.

In adults, viral hepatitis is the most common cause of infectious chronic liver disease, and it's often spread by close contact. In children, foodborne outbreaks are more common. Your body's immune system is a major cause of hepatitis and can be activated by something like a viral infection.

The key to understanding liver disease comes when you realize that the immune system - via T cells and B cells; NK cells; macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells - create inflammation in your gut which ultimately drains into your liver. And when these "Do-or-Die" T lymphocytes or "natural killer" (NK) cell attacks occur it triggers scarring in various regions of your liver which leads to cirrhosis.

The main cause of hepatitis is viral, but it's important to note that there are two types of hepatic viruses that can cause this condition. The first is Hepatitis A (HAV), which comes from fecal matter and is usually spread by food or water contaminated with infected feces. The second type of virus, Hepatitis B (HBV) comes from blood contact, sexual intercourse, or childbirth; however, both types can be transmitted through blood transfusion or drug use (especially needles). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HAV affects about 150 Americans each year; HBV affects roughly 2 million people annually.

The main cause of hepatitis is the virus. But there are other causes including bad hygiene, drinking contaminated water or using dirty injections needles. Furthermore, the hepatitis viruses may spread from an infected mother carrying the disease to her unborn child before it's even born! That can lead to two very different types of hepatitis - one that has a strong reaction where the pregnant woman develops significant liver damage and another that barely affects her at all. And then of course not surprisingly- people who already have chronic health conditions such as diabetes or cirrhosis (liver scarring) and those with weak immune systems due to age or chemotherapy for cancer patients with low white blood cell counts can be more prone to experiencing a chronic infection.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by either viruses or toxins, including alcohol and prescription medications. Symptoms may include fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting pain in the right side below the ribs when taking deep breaths. The most common type in America is Hepatitis A which you get from sharing food or drinks that are contaminated with tiny amounts of stool from infected people; also known as "gastroenteritis." Getting vaccinated prevents the most acute form usually found in children

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by viruses, alcohol, medication. With hepatitis A virus - the symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. The patient may also have jaundice or low levels of proteins within their blood. Hepatitis B virus - It's usually transmitted through contact with infected blood or other sharps objects such as needles. The symptoms can take up to 6 months before showing signs and it may include dark urine and light-colored stools, joint pain in the lower part of arms and legs (joints hurt worse when pressed) personality changes together with depression phase feelings such as irritability or sadness for no reason at all fatigue along with soreness. If the infection is acute then there may be nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and jaundice. If chronic then fatigue, loss of appetite, and liver damage may occur.

We recommend immunization for Hepatitis A with the appropriate protection against Hepatitis B with appropriate protection against Hepatitis C with appropriate protection against Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (genital herpes).

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. If you have acute hepatitis, there are often no symptoms associated with it; if you have chronic hepatitis, the most common symptom is fatigue. You can't get Hepatitis from drinking alcohol or eating too much greasy food (unless it's cooked in oil that hasn't been cleaned). You also don't get it by sharing personal items like towels or razors with an infected person.

A person with Hepatitis may feel tired, be pale and lose weight. They may not look sick but can carry the virus that damages their liver. The symptoms of HAV (hepatitis A) last only a few weeks to a couple of months, while symptoms from Hepatitis B can last six months or more; in both cases, there is no specific treatment.

Most people recover fully, and the liver will regain its former function without any need for transplantation or medical intervention in most cases but is often permanently damaged and scarred in others with chronic infections. Hepatitis C sometimes results in severe cirrhosis after decades of infection because it does not cause symptoms until late-stage disease when signs

Hepatitis is an unfortunate and contagious liver disease that we see in at least 500,000 people every year. Hepatitis can be caused by either a virus or a toxin/irritant such as alcohol. Symptoms include jaundice (yellow skin), dark urine, sudden fever that isn't relieved with antibiotics or acetaminophen, abdominal discomfort, and pain that doesn't feel like dysentery - which are hallmarks of the toxic type of hepatitis. Many times, you'll have elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood followed by the destruction of red blood cells due to obstruction of bile ducts if not treated early on.

Read Blog
Hormone Balance Diet: Eat Smart, Feel Better with SecondMedic

Hormone Balance Diet: Eat Smart, Feel Better with SecondMedic

Your hormones are the body’s messengers - regulating everything from energy and digestion to mood and fertility. But today’s stressful lifestyles, processed foods, and erratic sleep can easily disrupt this delicate balance. The result? Fatigue, acne, mood swings, weight gain, and irregular cycles.

Thankfully, you can start restoring balance right at your dining table - with the Hormone Balance Diet, supported by SecondMedic’s personalized health guidance.

 

The Science Behind Hormone Balance

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands like the thyroid, pancreas, and ovaries/testes.
When they’re balanced, your metabolism, sleep, and mood remain stable. But when disrupted - due to stress, poor diet, or toxins - it leads to inflammation and chronic symptoms.

Major hormones influenced by diet include:

  • Insulin: controls blood sugar and fat storage

  • Thyroid (T3, T4): regulates metabolism

  • Cortisol: the stress hormone

  • Estrogen & Progesterone: reproductive health and mood
     

According to the ICMR 2024 study, 1 in 3 Indian adults shows early signs of hormonal imbalance - most linked to poor diet and stress.

 

Foods That Help Restore Hormonal Harmony

1. Eat Real, Whole Foods

Whole grains (brown rice, millets, oats) and vegetables stabilize insulin. Avoid refined flour, sugar, and processed foods - they cause spikes that disrupt hormones.

2. Include Protein in Every Meal

Proteins provide amino acids needed for hormone synthesis. Add eggs, lentils, paneer, tofu, or fish.
Tip: 1 gram of protein per kg of body weight per day is ideal.

3. Healthy Fats = Healthy Hormones

Fats help build estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. Choose:

  • Ghee (in moderation)

  • Avocado, olive oil

  • Nuts & seeds (flaxseed, chia, sunflower)
     

Avoid hydrogenated oils and fried foods.

4. Boost Gut Health

Your gut microbiome regulates estrogen and cortisol. Include fermented foods like curd, buttermilk, kimchi, or probiotic drinks daily.

5. Micronutrients Matter

  • Magnesium: helps cortisol control - found in spinach, almonds

  • Zinc: supports thyroid and testosterone - pumpkin seeds, lentils

  • Vitamin D: crucial for insulin and estrogen balance - sunlight + fortified milk
     

6. Hydrate and Sleep Well

Dehydration and poor sleep elevate stress hormones. Aim for 7–8 hours of rest and 2–3 liters of water daily.

 

Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance

  • Constant fatigue

  • Unexplained weight gain/loss

  • Hair thinning or acne

  • Irregular menstrual cycles

  • Mood swings, irritability

  • Low libido
     

If you notice 2–3 of these symptoms consistently, it’s worth booking a Hormonal Health Check through SecondMedic.

 

How SecondMedic Helps Restore Balance

SecondMedic’s Hormonal Health Program includes:

  • At-home hormone testing (thyroid, insulin, estrogen, testosterone)

  • Expert doctor consultation online

  • Personalized diet & supplement plans

  • Progress tracking through your SecondMedic health dashboard
     

This integrated care model helps patients restore hormonal balance naturally - through nutrition, sleep, and stress management.

 

Conclusion

Your hormones thrive on balance - not extremes. A well-planned Indian diet rich in whole foods, good fats, and fiber can naturally reset your system. Add mindful habits like yoga, rest, and hydration, and your body will thank you with lasting energy, focus, and peace.

At SecondMedic, we make hormone health simple, data-driven, and personalized - right from your home.

Book your Hormonal Health Test and Nutrition Consultation now at SecondMedic.com - because balance begins with care.

 

Real Data & References

  • ICMR 2024: 1 in 3 Indians shows signs of hormonal imbalance.
    icmr.gov.in

     

  • NIN India (2024): Balanced macronutrient diets improve hormone stability.
    nin.res.in

     

  • WHO India 2023: Nutrition-based intervention reduces insulin resistance by 28%.
    who.int/india

     

  • SecondMedic Hormone Health Data (2025): 76% of patients report symptom improvement within 3 months of nutrition therapy.
    secondmedic.com

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