Both types are most commonly caused by hepatitis viruses or excessive alcohol intake. Hepatitis may occasionally be caused by exposure to certain chemicals or drugs, such as in a paracetamol overdose, or by an abnormal reaction to certain medications. Hepatitis A Hepatitis A is spread by ingesting substances contaminated with the virus, including food and water, or using contaminated cutlery or crockery. Contamination is usually due to poor hygiene, especially unwashed hands after using the toilet.
Symptoms usually appear about two weeks after contact with the virus.
After the initial phase, which may last from a few days to several weeks, the symptoms subside, but tiredness may continue for months. Hepatitis A does not usually cause permanent liver damage and patients make a complete recovery after a few months. Very occasionally, however, there may be serious, even fatal, complications. Hepatitis B Hepatitis B is a more serious viral hepatitis. It often leads to chronic hepatitis and extensive liver damage.