Hepatitis A cases on the rise: 5 reasons why Jaundice happens and how to stay safe

Hepatitis A is a severe liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, (HAV), a highly contagious virus that can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks, to a severe illness lasting several months. The symptoms of Hepatitis A include fever together with tiredness, nausea, pain in the upper stomach, dark urine and jaundice that causes yellowing of both eyes and skin. Here are 5 reasons why Jaundice happens, and how we can stay safe...

Liver infections which include hepatitis types A, B, C, D and E, lead to inflammation that damages liver cells. The liver cannot correctly process bilirubin when it becomes inflamed or injured, thus causing bilirubin to accumulate in the blood. Jaundice usually develops in patients who suffer from cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune liver disorders and genetic liver conditions and cirrhosis. (though it can also occur in perfectly healthy individuals, and even children)
These diseases lead to impaired liver function for toxin and waste product filtration, thus raising bilirubin levels. These conditions develop progressively, as symptoms such as fatigue and swelling along with abdominal pain commonly emerge in patients.

Some medical conditions lead to accelerated destruction of red blood cells at a rate beyond what is normal. Because of this, the liver faces an overwhelming amount of bilirubin. The excessive bilirubin, then escapes into the bloodstream, and causes jaundice. The breakdown of red blood cells can occur either quickly or slowly, and sometimes appears after infections or drug reactions. The treatment of the primary issue remains essential to stop further damage to the liver.

The bile ducts serve as the channels through which the liver transports bile and processed bilirubin, toward the intestine. The ducts become obstructed when gallstones, tumors, inflammation or scarring occurs, and prevents bile from passing through correctly. The blockage of bile ducts enables bilirubin to accumulate in the blood system which produces jaundice.
The obstruction of bile flow from the liver to the intestine, results in severe itching along with pale stool and dark urine, because bile cannot reach the intestines normally. The early detection of this condition allows patients to get their blockage treated, which helps prevent complications from developing.

Heavy drinking for an extended period damages the liver through the development of alcoholic hepatitis, or cirrhosis. The destruction of liver cells makes them unable to process bilirubin, which causes it to build up and produce jaundice. The liver disease resulting from alcohol consumption represents a prevalent reason why adults develop jaundice.
The progression of alcoholic liver disease leads to jaundice, alongside nausea, weight loss, swollen legs and mental confusion. The prevention of liver damage from alcohol, requires completely stopping alcohol consumption.

Liver damage leading to jaundice occurs when people take specific medications including acetaminophen overdoses, penicillin, steroids as well as chemical toxins. Some birth-related inherited disorders also disrupt bilirubin processing. The liver also functions abnormally during pregnancy, while certain cancers involving the gallbladder or pancreas also lead to jaundice through their impact on bile flow and liver operation.
Protect your liver by using medications only under medical supervision, and by staying away from substances that can harm it. Specific tests must be conducted in some cases to diagnose rare jaundice causes.

Hepatitis A along with jaundice, can be prevented through basic safety measures.

1. Get Vaccinated
2. Drink and Eat Safely
Use boiled or bottled water, when your local water source lacks safety guarantees.
3. Practice Good Hygiene
Hand washing with soap must be performed after using the toilet, and before cooking and before meals.
Teach children to wash their hands, especially if someone at home is sick.
4. Avoid Risky Contact
Share food, drinks or utensils only with people who do not have illness.

Sources
WebMD
HealthDirect Australia
Medical News Today
MedlinePlus

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.