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Hepatitis infection in the elderly

Seniors should prioritize preventative healthcare because many diseases are more prone to emerge as people age and the most successful therapies are often those that begin early in the course of an illness. Many people may be utterly unaware that they potentially carry the virus, whereas those who participated in high-risk behaviors may already be aware of their possible exposure and seek testing. It's probable that some persons contracted an infection after having blood transfusions because the testing standards for blood and organ donations at the time weren't as strict as they are now. The fact that this condition can go years without showing any symptoms makes it extremely dangerous. Seniors may be infected without realizing it, which raises the possibility that they would unintentionally spread the disease to others. Hepatitis is one such kind of disease and the treatment for hepatitis is essential because it can lead to persistent liver issues. However, many elderly people could pass away from the sickness before receiving the care they require if they are unaware that they are infected. The 28th of July is designated as World Hepatitis Day each year. Hepatitis is a term for a liver infection that is inflammatory. Hepatitis can have other probable origins besides the viral infection that often causes it. 

 

Liver functions:

 

Numerous vital bodily processes carried out by your liver include:

1. The creation of bile, which is necessary for digestion.

2. Detoxification of your body of toxins.

3. Excretion of waste, hormones, bilirubin, and cholesterol.

4. Breakdown of proteins, lipids, and carbs.

5. The turning on of enzymes.

6. Minerals, vitamins, and glycogen (a type of sugar) storage (A, D, E, and K).

7. Creation of blood proteins like albumin.

8. Clotting factor synthesis.

 

 Hepatitis early symptoms and warning signs:

When you initially catch the illness, it is known as acute hepatitis virus C. Although you could not have any symptoms at all, the symptoms are comparable to those of the flu. Symptoms often appear 2 to 12 weeks after the virus has been exposed. If you do, they might consist of:

 

ü Belly pain

ü Fatigue

ü Fever

ü Jaundice

ü Aching joints

ü Lack of appetite

ü Nausea

ü Vomiting

 

How to manage Hepatitis symptoms at home?

Stay inside

Your doctor would advise you stay at home until the fever and jaundice subside.

Take rest

During the first few weeks of being ill, it's common to feel quite exhausted.

Skin care is important

Some hepatitis A patients have severe itching. Avoid taking really hot baths or showers, keep your house cool, and wear loose-fitting clothing.

Eat little and often

Large, filling meals are harder on your stomach than this. Additionally, healthy diet planning will reduce your likelihood of feeling sick or throwing up.

Get adequate energy

Appetite loss is a typical symptom. You may need to choose foods that are high in calories to make sure you're getting enough nutrients. Even experimenting with fruit juice in place of water is an option.

Consult your physician

They'll check to see how you're handling your symptoms. They can inform you when you are well enough to resume your regular activities.

Skip the alcohol

Your liver will be stressed if you drink alcohol. Before your doctor gives you the all-clear, you should avoid it.

Be gentle with your liver

Your liver will struggle to process any medications, including over-the-counter ones, while you're ill. What medications, including vitamins and supplements, are safe for you to take? Consult with your doctor.

 

Can hepatitis in the elderly be prevented?

Hepatitis can be avoided through a variety of methods, including vaccination and thorough hand washing, home care services will aid in assisting seniors to perform their daily activities. However, it all hinges on the type you have. Here are some preventative measures for the three main types of this liver illness — hepatitis A, B, and C.

ü After any potential contact with blood, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.

ü Stay away from bodily fluids and blood up close.

ü Use a new, diluted bleach solution to clean up blood spills (mix 1 part bleach with 9 parts water)

ü Cover any wounds thoroughly.

ü Put used tampons and pads into plastic bags for disposal.

ü Make certain that fresh sterilized needles are used.

 

Athulya home healthcare provides seniors with in-home nursing services with a skilled medical care team that attends to all of the seniors' medical needs including hepatitis and other illness from the comfort of their bed at home!

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