Hepatitis Specialist

7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC

Gastroenterology located in Ocala, FL

Your liver is found under your rib cage on the right side of your body and it is as big as a football. This large organ helps remove toxins from your body, digest food, and store energy. Hepatitis refers to inflammation of your liver, which may affect its function. At 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC in Ocala, Florida, board-certified gastroenterologist, Vishnu Reddy, MD, specializes in conditions that affect the liver and can diagnose and treat hepatitis. For an evaluation, contact the office by phone or request an appointment online today.

Hepatitis Q & A

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a medical term used to indicate that your liver is inflamed. For some, the inflammation is temporary. However, some causes of hepatitis can lead to chronic inflammation that may ultimately lead to scarring of the tissue and liver failure. 

What causes hepatitis?

Hepatitis can develop from many causes, including drugs and alcohol. However, it’s most often caused by a virus, including:

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection contracted through the consumption of contaminated food. Hepatitis A causes very mild liver inflammation that usually resolves on its own in time. 

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a more serious viral infection that can lead to chronic hepatitis, liver damage, and liver failure. The virus is passed by blood and other body fluids such as semen. You can protect yourself from contracting hepatitis B by getting vaccinated.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is also a serious viral infection passed through contaminated blood that can lead to chronic hepatitis and liver failure. New treatments for hepatitis C can cure the infection and prevent liver damage.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis?

Symptoms of hepatitis may depend on the underlying cause of your inflammation. Common symptoms of hepatitis include:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Swollen belly
  • Diarrhea
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Nausea and vomiting

For some causes, such as hepatitis C, you may not experience symptoms until the virus has damaged your liver.

How is hepatitis diagnosed?

The gastroenterologist at 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, specializes in liver diseases and conducts a comprehensive evaluation when you come to the office with signs and symptoms of hepatitis. During your evaluation, your specialist obtains detailed information about your symptoms and medical history and conducts a physical exam.

Diagnostic tests may be conducted to assess liver health and determine the cause of your liver inflammation, such as blood tests, ultrasound, or MRI. You may even benefit from a liver biopsy to evaluate your liver. 

What are the treatments for hepatitis?

Treatment for hepatitis may depend on the cause of your liver inflammation and the degree of liver damage. The specialist at 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, develops individualized treatment plans, which may include abstinence from substances that may harm your liver, such as alcohol, certain drugs, and/or antiviral medication.

When treated early, your hepatitis can be cured.

To schedule an evaluation with a specialist, contact 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, by phone or using the online booking tool.