Hepatitis is commonly misunderstood, often thought of as an ‘incurable’ condition. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
With timely detection, proper treatment, and smart lifestyle changes, hepatitis can easily be prevented and treated, with nearly all those affected making a full recovery.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential facts about hepatitis A, B, and C, highlight the most common symptoms, and provide practical advice to help you support your liver health.
Understanding Hepatitis and Its Impact on Canadians
Hepatitis is a general term that simply refers to inflammation of the liver. This inflammation can be caused by various factors, such as viral infections, heavy alcohol use (called ‘alcohol-induced hepatitis’), certain medications, toxins, or autoimmune conditions where the body attacks its own liver cells.
According to the Government of Canada, there have been six hepatitis viruses identified, but hepatitis A, B, and C account for 90% of acute hepatitis infections in the country.
The good news is, hepatitis is quite treatable, with both hepatitis A and B even capable of clearing up on their own without medical treatment.
With that said, chronic hepatitis, if left untreated, can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer.
Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can help prevent long-term damage, reduce transmission risk, and significantly improve quality of life.
Let’s dive in and learn more about the three main types of hepatitis Canadians face.
Types of Hepatitis: A, B, and C Explained
Understanding the differences between hepatitis types is key to identifying risk factors and determining treatment.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is typically spread through contaminated food or water, and Mayo Clinic explains that hepatitis A is highly contagious and can be transmitted through close contact with infected people or objects.
Not everyone with hepatitis A will develop symptoms, and those who do may not experience them for a number of weeks. Luckily, mild cases don’t often require treatment, and most people infected recover without any permanent liver damage.
A vaccine is available and highly effective in preventing hepatitis A. If you plan to travel internationally, especially to high-risk regions, vaccination is strongly recommended.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids.
This can happen through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or be passed from mother to baby during childbirth.
While symptoms may take months to appear, or may not appear at all, most adults infected with hepatitis B recover fully, and not everyone will require medication to clear the virus from their body.
However, in some cases, the virus becomes chronic, potentially lasting months, years or becoming a lifelong condition. In these cases, medications become necessary for management.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B, being 95-100% effective for 30 years, according to Liver Canada.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, most commonly through shared needles, non-sterile tattoos or piercings.
Unlike hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, making prevention paramount.
Many people with hepatitis C develop chronic infection, which may silently damage the liver for years.
Fortunately, according to CATIE, the Canadian AIDS Treatment Information Exchange, modern antiviral treatments can cure over 95% of people with hepatitis C. Early detection is key to accessing this potentially life-changing treatment.
Recognizing Hepatitis Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on whether the infection is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Acute hepatitis often resembles the flu but may come with more specific signs of liver involvement.
Acute hepatitis symptoms may include:
- Abdominal tenderness or discomfort
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Nausea or vomiting
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Dark-colored urine
Chronic hepatitis symptoms are more subtle and can develop slowly over time. These may include:
- Persistent jaundice
- Fluid retention or abdominal swelling
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Sleep or mood disturbances
- Brain fog or memory issues
- Itchy or dry skin
Many individuals with chronic hepatitis do not show symptoms for years. This makes routine testing essential, especially if you’re part of a higher-risk group.
While progress varies person to person, women may progress more slowly than men, but liver damage can accelerate post-menopause.
Importance of Early Detection
The only way to confirm a hepatitis diagnosis is through testing. Blood tests can detect active infection, past exposure, and liver function.
Early detection improves outcomes and reduces the risk of transmitting the virus to others. If you think you may have been exposed, or if you’re experiencing unexplained fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal discomfort, speak to your healthcare provider.
Medical Management and Hepatitis Treatment Options
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at how healthcare professionals determine the best course of action based on your type of hepatitis and overall liver health.
Diagnostic Procedures
To diagnose hepatitis, your healthcare team may recommend:
- Blood tests to detect viral markers and liver enzyme levels
- Liver function tests to assess organ performance
- Ultrasound or elastography to check for liver stiffness or damage
- Liver biopsy in specific cases to evaluate inflammation and fibrosis
These tools help confirm the diagnosis and guide the best treatment approach.
Treatment Modalities
Treatment depends on the type and severity of hepatitis.
For hepatitis A and acute hepatitis B, treatment typically takes the form of lifestyle changes, such as:
- Not drinking alcohol
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Staying hydrated
- Getting plenty of rest
Treatment for chronic hepatitis B includes antiviral medications, such as:
- Immunomodulators such as Peginterferon alfa-2a
- Nucleoside analogues such as Entecavir or Lamivudine
- Nucleotide analogues like Tenofovir
Hepatitis C is typically treated with an 8-12 week round of combination antiretrovirals. Some common options include:
- Epclusa (sofosbuvir-velpatasvir)
- Harvoni (ledipasvir-sofosbuvir)
- Maviret (glecaprevir-pibrentasvir)
- Vosevi (sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir)
Available Vaccines
While there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, vaccination is the most effective form of prevention for hepatitis A and B and can come in a few different forms:
- Twinrix: Combined hepatitis A and B vaccine
- Havrix: Hepatitis A vaccine
- Engerix-B: Hepatitis B vaccine
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Ongoing care is essential for people with chronic hepatitis.
Regular blood tests help track liver function and treatment progress, and some providers may recommend periodic imaging to check for signs of cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Pharmacists can also play a role by helping you manage medications and monitor side effects.
Tips for Managing Your Liver Health
You don’t have to wait for a diagnosis to start protecting your liver. Here are some practical tips we recommend for maintaining liver wellness regardless of a hepatitis diagnosis:
- Get vaccinated: Especially if you’re at risk or planning to travel.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs: These put added stress on the liver.
- Practice safe sex: Use protection and get tested regularly.
- Never share needles or personal items: Insist on new, sterile equipment when getting tattoos or piercings. Watch the technician open the package.
- Maintain proper hygiene: Wash hands regularly, especially before meals.
- Follow a liver-friendly diet: Low in saturated fats and high in fibre-rich fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly: Give your body the movement it needs to maintain a healthy weight and reduce liver fat.
- Be cautious when travelling: Stick to bottled water, avoid raw foods, and ensure your vaccinations are up to date.
Role of PharmaChoice Healthcare Providers and Pharmacists
At PharmaChoice, we’re committed to helping you take charge of your health. We help our patients living with hepatitis through:
- Collaborative Care: We work closely with physicians, nurses, and public health teams for personalized support.
- Pharmacist Support: From explaining medication schedules to recommending liver-safe products and supporting with potential medication effects, our pharmacists are always here to help.
- Regular Consultations: We encourage ongoing discussions to ensure your treatment remains effective and that any concerns are addressed promptly.
Your liver health matters to us. We’re your partner in every step of your care.
Common Hepatitis Questions
What is the cause of hepatitis?
Hepatitis can be caused by viruses (hepatitis A, B, and C), alcohol misuse, toxins, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases.
Is hepatitis permanent?
Hepatitis A is usually temporary, while hepatitis B and C can become chronic. However, modern treatments, especially for hepatitis C, can lead to full recovery.
Do you fully recover from hepatitis?
Yes, many people fully recover, especially from hepatitis A and acute hepatitis B. Chronic hepatitis C is curable in most cases with antiviral medications. However, while those with chronic hepatitis B may find long-term remission, it cannot be completely cured.
What is the best food for hepatitis patients?
A liver-friendly diet includes:
- Leafy greens and fresh fruits
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins (like fish or tofu)
- Minimal saturated fats, sugar, and salt
- Lots of water and limited alcohol
Learn More About Hepatitis at Your Local PharmaChoice Pharmacy
Hepatitis doesn’t have to define your life. With accurate information, early detection, and consistent care, it’s possible to manage hepatitis effectively and maintain excellent liver health. Whether you’re preventing infection, starting treatment, or just aiming to live better, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Talk to your local PharmaChoice pharmacist today for personalized support, medication guidance, and expert advice to help you manage hepatitis and live your healthiest life.
