Hepatitis E

The symptoms of hepatitis E show up two to six weeks after contracting the infection. However, it is also possible to have this infection and be asymptomatic. Some of the common symptoms of the condition are as follows:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice
• Loss of appetite
• Joint pain
• Light coloured stool 
• Dark urine
• Liver enlargement
• Skin rash 
• Itching

The most common cause of hepatitis E is the consumption of food or water contaminated with the faecal matter of an infected person. Poor sanitation such as sewage mixing with drinking water and not washing hands can further transmit the virus.

Other routes of infection have also been identified. These include blood transfusions or by eating products from infected animals, especially undercooked meat. Vertical transmission from a pregnant mother to the baby is also possible. These, however, are less commonly found.

Hepatitis E and its symptoms are clinically very similar to other forms of viral hepatitis, making it hard to distinguish and diagnose. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, including if you have travelled anywhere recently.

A definitive diagnosis can be made through a hepatitis E test, which is a blood test. Rapid tests for the same are also available. Additionally, RT-PCR test can be used to detect the presence of viral RNA in the body.

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Hepatitis E usually resolves on its own within four to six weeks. There is no specific course of treatment that can alter how the disease progresses.

Hospitalization is not necessary, except in acute (severe) cases where a 21-day course of ribavirin may be prescribed.

Where the virus is self-limiting, recovery tends to be fast. Doctors advise taking rest and drink lots of fluids. It is important to avoid any unnecessary medication, even acetaminophen or paracetamol. One should also steer clear of alcohol, while they are sick.

The prognosis is usually good as hepatitis E typically causes short-term infections that the body can overcome. The mortality rate of the condition is 1%.  However, this acute condition can also become chronic, especially in pregnant women and those with a suppressed immune system (immunocompromised). Consulting a healthcare profession and self-care is often enough to recover from hepatitis E.