Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver, the organ that helps the body digest food, store energy, and remove toxins and waste. Most cases of hepatitis are caused by a viral infection, though it also can be caused by drug or alcohol use. Some forms of hepatitis are mild, and others can be serious, especially if they lead to conditions such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, or liver cancer. Hepatitis may cause no symptoms, while in other cases it may cause loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, dark-colored urine and pale bowel movements, stomach pain, or jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes).
UAB Medicine offers highly personalized care for evaluating, treating, and preventing hepatitis infections. As part of our standard of care, the UAB Primary Care, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Travelers Health, and Infectious Disease clinics routinely provide vaccinations against hepatitis A and B to patients at high risk, as well as treatment when necessary. For patients with hepatitis C, our experienced physicians from these clinics can prescribe various antiviral medications depending on the specific type of virus you have, the degree of liver disease, other medications you need, and other health conditions you may have. In fact, UAB was involved in the clinical trials that led to FDA approval of the latest (and previous) hepatitis C treatment, which cures the disease in most people. In cases where hepatitis has progressed to more serious liver disease, patients also benefit from the expertise found in our nationally recognized programs for liver failure, liver cancer, and liver transplantation.
To make an appointment for a hepatitis evaluation, vaccination, or treatment, call 205-996-4744. For vaccinations prior to international travel, call 205-930-8310. For patients with both HIV and hepatitis infections, please call our 1917 Clinic at 205-934-1917.
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