What is HIV-HBV-HCV-HEV-HAV?

Viral hepatitis is a systemic infection that affects the liver predominantly. It is caused by the viral infection of different types of hepatotropic viruses, such as Hepatitis A virus (HAV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Hepatitis D Virus (HDV), and Hepatitis E Virus (HEV). 

We have discussed the symptoms of HIV, HAV, HBV, HCV, and HEV, and the right time to see a doctor for these viral infections.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV is a sexually transmitted infection that can spread by getting in contact with infected blood or from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, breastfeeding or childbirth.

Symptoms of HIV

HIV can grow into AIDS by weakening the immune system for a long time. So, it is important to diagnose HIV at the early stage and that is only possible by knowing about the symptoms at different stages of the infection.

Acute HIV (primary infection)

• Fever
• Rash
• Headache
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Swollen lymph glands, specifically on the neck
• Sore throat
• Painful mouth sores
• Weight loss
• Night sweats
• Cough
• Diarrhea

Chronic HIV (Clinical latent infection)

• Fever
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Pneumonia
• Shingles
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Oral yeast infection

Progression to AIDS

• Sweats
• Chills
• Recurring fever
• Chronic diarrhea
• Weakness
• Weight loss
• Swollen lymph glands
• Skin rashes or bumps
• Persistent fatigue
• White spots or lesions in the mouth or on the tongue.

As soon as you see the early symptoms of HIV, make an appointment to a doctor for a detailed diagnosis.

Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

HAV is a type of hepatotropic virus that causes Hepatitis A liver disease. HAV spreads when an uninfected person eats food or drinks water that is contaminated by an infected person.

HBV is a type of hepatotropic virus that causes Hepatitis B, a serious liver infection that when left untreated for over six months can become chronic. Chronic Hepatitis B puts you at higher risk of liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

Symptoms of HAV and HBV infection

• Fatigue
• Sudden nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Clay-colored bowel movements
• Abdominal pain and discomfort
• Joint pain
• Dark urine
• Intense itching
• Jaundice

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

HCV is the virus causing Hepatitis C, a viral infection that leads to liver inflammation that may even result in liver damage. The virus spreads by contaminated blood. Oral medications can cure HCV, but it may turn chronic if not treated on time.

Symptoms of HCV infection

• Bruising and bleeding
• Poor appetite
• Itchy skin
• Fatigue
• Jaundice
• Dark urine
• Weight loss
• Swelling in the legs
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Spiderlike blood vessels on the skin
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen

Hepatitis E Virus (HEV)

HEV is a virus that causes Hepatitis E viral infection. It is an acute disease that targets the liver. HEV transmits through contaminated drinking water. Generally, the symptoms of the infection resolve in two to four weeks, but sometime sit can get serious and lead to acute liver failure.

Symptoms of HEV infection

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Dark Urine
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Joint Pain
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Acute liver failure
• Enlargement of liver

When to see a doctor