OrganizedWisdom Health - Hepatitis

Jaundice Causes

CatherIN — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:06:39 GMT

There are several factors that may cause jaundice. Some of the possible causes include an obstruction of the bile duct, biliary stricture, cirrhosis, pancreatic cancer, inadequate blood flow to the liver, certain congenital disorders, and malaria. Some newborn babies develop jaundice due to an immature liver.

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Hepatitis C

CatherIN — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:12:26 GMT

Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus. This virus infects the liver, causing inflammation. Over time, hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, permanent liver damage, liver cancer, and liver failure.

Fast Facts

In the United States, hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver transplantation.
Hepatitis C is spread through contact with infected blood.
Some people have hepatitis C for years before it is diagnosed.

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Peginterferon Alfa-2a

Sanbear — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 02:19:54 GMT

Peginterferon alfa-2a is a synthetic (man made) version of interferon, a protein that helps the body fight viruses. It is used to treat patients infected with hepatitis B and C. It is sometimes used in patients who have liver disease. Peginterferon alfa-2a is also used with people who have HIV and are clinically stable.

Fast Facts:

Common side effects include: upset stomach, nausea and vomiting, heartburn, dry mouth, hair loss, sweating, dizziness, weight loss and diarrhea.
It is very important that all medical testing and physician's visits be kept while using this medication.
Peginterferon alfa-2a is sold under brand name Pegasys

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Hepatitis B

CatherIN — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 21:52:58 GMT

Hepatitis B is a contagious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and results in inflammation of the liver. There are two phases of this infection. Acute hepatitis B is the first phase that occurs shortly after being exposed. When the infection lasts six months or longer, it is considered chronic hepatitis B.

Fast Facts:

Hepatitis B is spread through contact with blood or other bodily fluids.
Symptoms of hepatitis B can be mild to severe and may include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice. Some people, however, do not experience symptoms.
In the United States, 1.25 million people are chronic carriers of HBV.

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Natalie Cole Kidney Transplant

Mindy6197 — Sat, 23 May 2009 21:13:58 GMT

Singer Natalie Cole underwent a kidney transplant on May 18, 2009, after suffering from kidney disease in addition to hepatitis C. Cole's representatives say the hepatitis had been completely cured before she received her transplant. While Cole recovered from her successful, life-saving operation, her sister passed away tragically just hours later after a diagnosis of lung cancer only one week earlier.

Fast Facts:

Cole spoke publicly about her battle with hepatitis C which she believes she contracted due to illicit drug use years earlier.
Cole had been undergoing kidney dialysis three times each week before receiving the transplant.
Cole's transplant, which was coordinated by OneLegacy, came from a terminally ill fan who specifically asked that the singer receive the transplant if the two were a match.

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Interferon Alfa 2a

LeanneD — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 22:48:19 GMT

Interferon alfa 2a is a protein naturally produced by the body to help fight infection. If you suffer from hepatitis C, Kaposi's sarcoma, or hairy cell leukemia, your physician may prescribe Interferon alfa 2a as treatment. It is administered to help prevent viruses or tumors from growing in the body.

Fast Facts:

Generic for the brand Roferon-A.
Not all patients will respond favorably to this particular treatment.
Some side effects include diarrhea, rash, upset stomach, and dry skin.

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Interferon Alfacon 1

LeanneD — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:21:57 GMT

Interferon alfacon 1 is a synthetic version of a substance produced naturally by the body to help fight infection. It is utilized for the treatment of hepatitis C, which is a disease of the liver. During treatment, its side effects and effectiveness may be monitored through simple blood tests.

Fast Facts:

Generic for the brand Infergen.
FDA pregnancy category C.
Administered via injection, three times weekly.
Side effects can include dizziness, headache, diarrhea, upset stomach, and nervousness.

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Interferon Alfa 2b

LeanneD — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:20:32 GMT

Interferon alfacon 1 is a synthetic version of a substance produced naturally by the body to help fight infections and tumors. It is utilized for the treatment of hepatitis B and C, skin cancer, genital warts, Kaposi's sarcoma, and specific types of leukemia. During treatment, its side effects and effectiveness may be monitored through simple blood tests and physical exams.

Fast Facts:

Side effects can include diarrhea, upset stomach, itching, and skin rash.
Administered daily via injection for the first 10 to 24 weeks. Subsequent treatments will be given three times weekly.
FDA pregnancy category C.

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Supplements for Liver Health

KenyottaE — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 02:27:23 GMT

There are many supplements that are generally thought to promote liver health. Supplements containing dandelion, garlic, and milk thistle are commonly thought to promote liver health even though their benefits have not been fully researched. The use of health supplements should be done in conjunction with a liver friendly diet.

Fast Facts:

Milk thistle supplements are believed to help unclog the liver and help regenerate new cells.
Some supplements have been shown to counteract the damaging effects of an acetaminophen overdose.
You should consult with your physician before beginning any supplement.

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Major Depression and Hepatitis

AmyS — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:18:03 GMT

Major depression is commonly associated with hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is common, but can be fatal. Those who suffer from hepatitis C seem to have higher rates of psychiatric illness, such as substance abuse and depression.

Fast Facts:

Interferon, a treatment for hepatitis, can also exacerbate depression.
It is estimated that 170 million people worldwide suffer from hepatitis C.
Major depressive disorder is characterized by five or more signs of depression lasting for over two weeks.

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