• 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.

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Sadness is a normal emotional

Difference Between Sadness and Depression: Understanding Normal Emotions vs Mental Illness

Feeling low or unhappy is a part of being human. However, not all low moods are the same. Many people confuse sadness with depression, which can delay proper support and treatment. Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for mental health awareness, early intervention and reducing stigma.

In India, mental health conditions are often misunderstood, with emotional distress frequently dismissed as temporary sadness.

 

What Is Sadness?

Sadness is a normal human emotion.

It usually occurs due to:

  • loss or disappointment

  • relationship issues

  • failure or stress

  • temporary life challenges

Sadness serves a psychological purpose, allowing individuals to process emotions and adapt.

 

Key Characteristics of Sadness

Sadness is:

  • situational

  • temporary

  • emotionally painful but manageable

  • responsive to support and positive events

A person experiencing sadness can still function, enjoy moments and feel hopeful.

 

What Is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition classified as a mood disorder.

It affects:

  • emotions

  • thinking patterns

  • behaviour

  • physical health

According to WHO, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

 

Core Symptoms of Depression

Depression involves a combination of symptoms such as:

  • persistent low mood

  • loss of interest or pleasure

  • fatigue

  • sleep disturbances

  • appetite changes

  • feelings of worthlessness

  • difficulty concentrating

These symptoms last at least two weeks or longer.

 

Duration: A Key Difference

One major difference lies in duration.

Sadness:

  • lasts hours or days

  • improves with time

Depression:

  • lasts weeks or months

  • persists despite positive events

Duration helps distinguish emotional response from illness.

 

Impact on Daily Functioning

Sadness:

  • allows continuation of work and relationships

  • may reduce motivation temporarily

Depression:

  • interferes with work, studies and relationships

  • reduces self-care and productivity

Functional impairment is a defining feature of depression.

 

Emotional Experience: Sadness vs Depression

Sadness:

  • allows emotional range

  • moments of joy still occur

Depression:

  • creates emotional numbness

  • joy and interest disappear

People with depression often describe feeling empty rather than sad.

 

Physical Symptoms in Depression

Depression is not only emotional.

Physical symptoms include:

  • chronic fatigue

  • body aches

  • headaches

  • digestive issues

ICMR mental health studies highlight the physical burden of depression.

 

Thought Patterns and Self-Perception

Sadness:

  • thoughts remain realistic

  • self-worth is preserved

Depression:

  • negative self-talk dominates

  • feelings of guilt and worthlessness increase

These cognitive changes deepen emotional suffering.

 

Risk Factors for Depression

Factors increasing depression risk include:

  • chronic stress

  • trauma

  • family history

  • medical illnesses

  • hormonal changes

NFHS-5 data indicates rising mental health concerns among young adults.

 

Can Sadness Turn Into Depression?

Yes, prolonged or unresolved sadness can progress into depression.

This is more likely when:

  • stressors are ongoing

  • support systems are weak

  • coping mechanisms are limited

Early emotional support can prevent progression.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek help if:

  • low mood lasts more than two weeks

  • daily functioning is affected

  • sleep and appetite are disturbed

  • thoughts of self-harm occur

Early care leads to better outcomes.

 

Treatment Differences

Sadness:

  • improves with rest, support and time

Depression:

  • requires psychotherapy

  • may need medication

  • benefits from structured care

WHO emphasises early treatment to reduce disability.

 

Role of Social Support

Support systems help both conditions but are essential for recovery.

Depression recovery improves with:

  • understanding family

  • supportive workplaces

  • accessible mental healthcare

Stigma reduction is key.

 

Mental Health Awareness in India

Mental health remains underdiagnosed in India.

NITI Aayog reports:

  • limited access to mental health services

  • low awareness

  • high stigma

Education helps bridge this gap.

 

Importance of Early Recognition

Recognising depression early:

  • prevents worsening

  • reduces suicide risk

  • improves quality of life

Delay increases suffering and complications.

 

Supporting Someone With Depression

Helpful actions include:

  • listening without judgement

  • encouraging professional help

  • avoiding minimising feelings

Compassion is more effective than advice.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is essential for emotional wellbeing and mental health care. Sadness is a natural, temporary response to life events, while depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, emotions and daily functioning. Recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate help can prevent long-term suffering and promote recovery. Mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Depression and Mental Health Disorders

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Mental Health Research and Burden

  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Mental Health Indicators

  • Lancet – Depression, Disability and Public Health

  • NITI Aayog – National Mental Health Policy and Awareness Reports

  • Statista – Global and Indian Mental Health Trends

See all

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