Doctors and specialists call the major types Hepatitis, A, B, and C, but all will affect the liver in some way.
Symptoms are dark urine, low grade fever, loss of appetite, feeling tired or fatigued, yellowing of the eyes or skin, stomach pain and lack of nutrition.
Hepatitis is contracted by sharing needles, having sex with someone who has it, having contact with infected blood and/or body fluids, and some types can be given to an unborn child. It may also be contracted by drinking or eating something that has the virus in it.
Hepatitis A: The liver can heal in a short time, often as fast as 2 months. It will not lead to a longer infection, and has less complications. It may be prevented with a vaccine.
Hepatitis B: The virus can spread even if you do not have symptoms. Most people can recover from this type within 6 months, although it can last longer and cause liver damage. It may be prevented with a vaccine.
Hepatitis C: A higher number of those that contract Hepatitis C have a longer infection period, and it can in some cases lead to cirrhosis of the liver. It is possible to have Hepatitis C and have no symptoms at all. There is a newer vaccine that is much more effective. There are also new medications that have cured many people completely.