Hepatitis (liver inflammation)

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver.

Overview

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. In addition to an infection (mainly hepatitis A - E), poisoning (primarily alcohol), overnutrition and various diseases can also cause liver inflammation. Typical symptoms include pressure pain and pressure in the upper abdomen, pale stools and yellowish discolouration of the skin and eyes. Such symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.

Symptoms

Depending on the cause, the disease can be asymptomatic

Complications

Causes and treatment

Causes

Risk factors

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests
  • Blood test
  • Search for pathogen (virus, antibodies)
  • Ultrasound
  • Liver biopsy (tissue sample), if necessary
Possible therapies

Depending on the cause of the hepatitis

  • Watchful waiting
  • Bed rest
  • Alcohol withdrawal and weaning
  • Antiviral medication
  • Suppression of immune system
  • Last resort: liver transplant

What can I do myself?

  • Vaccination against hepatitis A, B
  • Before leaving on a trip: contact travel doctor or institute of tropical medicine
    • Vaccinations
    • Travel recommendations
  • Follow general hygiene standards
    • Hand hygiene
    • Drinking water, food hygiene
  • Healthy diet, normal weight
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Follow the safer sex rules
    • Always use a condom or femidom during sexual intercourse
    • Don't get sperm or blood (including menstrual blood) in your mouth, and don’t swallow
  • Don’t share drug paraphernalia (no “needle sharing”)

When to see a doctor?

Further information

Federal Office of Public Health, FOPH (Bundesamt für Gesundheit, BAG)
www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en

Swiss Hepatitis (Hepatitis Schweiz)
www.hepatitis-schweiz.ch/en/

Synonyms

liver inflammation, hepatitis, inflammation of the liver, autoimmune hepatitis

Exclusion of liability

CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.