Which of the following is a characteristic of hepatitis?

The characteristic of hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis is primarily a liver condition, and its name itself highlights this fundamental aspect. It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, alcohol use, autoimmune diseases, and toxins, leading to an inflammatory response in the liver.

This inflammation can result in a variety of symptoms and complications, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. Recognizing the inflammation aspect is crucial for understanding how hepatitis affects overall health and how it is diagnosed and treated.

While the other options may involve symptoms or conditions that can affect a person's health, they do not directly relate to the definition or fundamental understanding of hepatitis. Increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, and symptoms like coughing and sneezing are not characteristic of hepatitis specifically, as they do not involve the liver or its inflammatory processes.