Health Advice and Prevention Tips by Dr Wang Yu Tien

Understanding the Liver and Hepatitis

The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs. It supports digestion, processes nutrients, and removes toxins from our blood. Located in the upper right side of the abdomen, just below the diaphragm, it plays an essential role in maintaining overall health.

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by several factors, though viral infections remain the most common. There are different types of viral hepatitis — A, B, C, and E — each with its own mode of transmission and severity.

Hepatitis may be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute hepatitis usually resolves within weeks or months, while chronic hepatitis lasts for at least six months and can persist for years. Both can lead to liver failure if severe.

Acute Hepatitis (Hepatitis A and E)

Hepatitis A and E are the main causes of acute hepatitis. Some people may have mild or no symptoms, but others may experience:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

  • Fatigue and lethargy

  • Poor appetite

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Pain in the upper right abdomen

Doctors confirm the diagnosis through blood tests for hepatitis A or E.

In the past, hepatitis A was the most common cause of acute hepatitis, but cases of hepatitis E have increased in recent years. Both viruses spread through contact with stool from an infected person or animal — often through contaminated food or water. Poor hand hygiene and unsafe water sources are frequent culprits.

Most people recover completely within weeks with rest, hydration, and medical guidance. There is no specific cure, but symptoms can be managed effectively. However, hepatitis E carries a higher risk of severe complications in pregnant individuals.

Self-Care for Acute Hepatitis

If you are recovering from acute hepatitis, remember to:

  • Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated

  • Avoid alcohol and unnecessary medication (consult your doctor first)

  • Maintain good hand hygiene

  • Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms worsen

 

Prevention of Acute Hepatitis

Preventive steps include:

  • Vaccination for hepatitis A

  • Avoiding undercooked meat, offal, and shellfish

  • Drinking only from safe, clean water sources

Chronic Hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C)

Hepatitis B and C can cause chronic infection, which may lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer if untreated. Both spread through contact with infected body fluids — for example, through unprotected sexual contact or contaminated needles.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B remains one of the most common viral infections worldwide. In Singapore, about 3% of the population is infected. It is often passed from an infected mother to her baby during birth, when the infant’s immune system is still developing.

Because hepatitis B is a DNA virus, it can embed itself within liver cells, making complete eradication difficult. Regular monitoring and medical care are essential.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C affects about 1% of the global population but is less common in Singapore. This RNA virus spreads primarily through infected needles or unprotected sex. Many people do not experience symptoms during the early stage, but around 70% develop chronic infection over time.

Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis

Treatment for hepatitis B and C involves antiviral medication and sometimes interferon injections. These treatments work by suppressing the virus and supporting the body’s immune response.

Recent advances have introduced direct-acting antivirals for hepatitis C — highly effective medications that can cure most patients. For hepatitis B, however, current therapies help control the virus but cannot fully eliminate it from the liver. Long-term or lifelong medication may be necessary.

Even when treatment is not immediately required, regular monitoring through blood tests and liver scans is crucial to detect any changes early and prevent complications such as liver cancer or cirrhosis.

Living with Chronic Hepatitis

If you have chronic hepatitis:

  • Keep regular appointments with your doctor for monitoring and tests.

  • Do not stop or change your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle — avoid alcohol and stay active.

Prevention of Chronic Hepatitis

  • Get vaccinated: Hepatitis B vaccination is safe and highly effective. It is routinely given to all infants in Singapore.

  • Practise safe behaviours: Avoid sharing needles or engaging in unprotected sex.

  • Check during pregnancy: Expectant mothers should know their hepatitis B status so preventive treatment can be provided to protect their babies.

  • Note that casual contact — such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food — does not spread hepatitis B or C.

When the Liver Fails

If the liver is unable to perform its vital functions, the following symptoms may appear:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

  • Persistent fatigue or confusion

  • Swelling of the legs or abdomen

  • Itching or easy bruising

  • Poor appetite, nausea, or vomiting

Anyone with these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Takeaway

Hepatitis remains a preventable and treatable condition when identified early. Through vaccination, safe practices, and regular health check-ups, liver disease can be effectively managed or avoided altogether.

Dr Wang Yu Tien reminds readers: “Your liver quietly supports your body every day — take care of it through awareness, prevention, and timely medical care.” PRIME

Author

  • Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology and Hepatology,

    Nobel Gastroenterology Centre, Gleneagles Medical Centre

    Dr Wang practices at Nobel Gastroenterology Centre. He has nearly 20 years of experience from Singapore General Hospital as senior consultant, director of research and a faculty of senior resident training at the department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Dr Wang is experienced in managing the full spectrum of gastrointestinal and liver diseases as well as endoscopy.

    His subspecialty interest is digestive function disorders (e.g. Gastroesophageal Reflux and Irritable Bowel Syndrome). He was also the former director of the Gastrointestinal Function Laboratory at Singapore General Hospital and past Scientific Chairperson of the Gastroenterology Society of Singapore.

    Dr Wang has published in top gastroenterology journals and has served as the Gastroenterology specialty editor of Singapore Medical Journal.

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