Delhi has seen a substantial increase in Hepatitis A cases in the past two months, according to doctors. Hepatitis (1✔ ✔Reliable source
Hepatitis – World Health Organization (WHO)
) is an infection that primarily affects the liver, and the most common viruses are hepatitis A, B, C and E. Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus, which is transmitted through consumption of contaminated food or water, poor personal hygiene, inadequate sanitation or direct contact with an infected person.
Neurological and renal risks of hepatitis-related liver inflammation
“In the last two months, we have seen a significant rise in hepatitis A cases. From January to May this year, we were recording an average of three cases per month. However, in June, this number increased to 22 cases, and in July, we have already seen 20 cases,” Dr Harpreet Kaur, Medical Superintendent and Head of Laboratory Services and Blood Centre at Aakash Healthcare, told IANS.
Experts pointed out that the inflammation of the liver Hepatitis can also affect the brain, kidneys, and brain cells. “While hepatitis does not always affect the brain, the prevalence of neurological complications is significant among patients with severe or chronic liver disease. This condition occurs when the liver fails to filter toxins from the blood, leading to their buildup and eventually damage to brain cells.
“Symptoms can range from mild cognitive impairment to severe neurological deficits,” Dr Anaita Hegde, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Neurology, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, told IANS. Regular monitoring and medical intervention can reduce the risks, experts said.
“When hepatitis affects the braincan cause a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy. Prevention is key, involving vaccination“Safe practices to avoid infection and regular medical check-ups are necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk,” Dr Raghvendra Ramdasi, consultant neurosurgeon at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, told IANS.
Reference:
- Hepatitis – World Health Organization (WHO) – (https://www.who.int/health-topics/hepatitis)
Source-IANS
