Hepatitis E is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. While it is often considered a disease that affects adults, children can also contract hepatitis E. The virus is typically spread through contaminated water or food, particularly in areas where sanitation is poor. For most children, hepatitis E is a mild illness that resolves on its own, but in some cases, it can cause more serious liver problems.
Symptoms
- Fever: A mild to moderate fever is often the first symptom.
- Fatigue: Children may feel unusually tired or weak.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These are common digestive symptoms.
- Jaundice: This is when the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow, a clear sign of liver involvement.
- Dark Urine: The urine may appear much darker than usual.
- Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort, especially in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located.
Loss of Appetite: A decrease in the desire to eat is common.
Causes
- Contaminated Water: Drinking water contaminated with the virus is the most common source of infection, especially in regions with poor sanitation.
- Contaminated Food: Eating food prepared with contaminated water, such as undercooked shellfish, can lead to infection.
Diagnosis
- Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor will ask about symptoms, recent travel, and possible exposure to contaminated water or food.
- Blood Tests: These tests detect antibodies against the hepatitis E virus, confirming the diagnosis.
- Stool Tests: The virus’s genetic material (RNA) can be found in stool samples.
- Liver Function Tests: These tests check how well the liver is working and look for signs of inflammation or damage.
Treatment Options
- Rest: Adequate rest is important to help the body fight off the infection.
- Hydration: Ensuring the child drinks plenty of fluids is essential, especially if they have been vomiting or have diarrhea.
- Nutritional Support: Light, easy-to-digest meals can help maintain energy levels without putting too much strain on the liver.
- Medications: Over-the-counter medications can be used to manage symptoms like fever and nausea, but these should be given under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
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