Hepatitis B is a severe liver illness caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can result in both short- and long-term sickness. The virus spreads by contact with an infected person's blood or other bodily fluids, such as unprotected intercourse, needle sharing, or transmission from an infected mother to her infant after birthing.
Unlike hepatitis A, hepatitis B can become a chronic infection, resulting in catastrophic liver diseases such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis B?
The symptoms of hepatitis B can vary from mild to severe and may not appear until months after being infected. Some common symptoms include:
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Feeling very tired
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Loss of appetite
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Nausea or vomiting
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Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side of your belly (where the liver is)
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Dark urine
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Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
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Pain in the muscles or joints
Although many people, particularly kids, may not show any symptoms, they can still infect others with the virus.
How is Hepatitis B Diagnosed?
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests. These tests determine whether the virus is present and whether the infection is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
How is Hepatitis B Spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected body fluids. Some of the most common ways it is transmitted include:
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Unprotected intercourse with an infected person
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Sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment
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Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant from an infected person (though this is rare due to blood screening)
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From an infected mother to her baby during childbirth
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Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with someone who is infected
Can Hepatitis B be Prevented?
Yes, hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it is typically given in a series of shots over a few months. Most children receive the vaccine as part of their routine childhood vaccinations, but adults can also get vaccinated, especially those who are at higher risk, such as:
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Healthcare workers
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People with multiple partners or those who have unprotected intercourse
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People who inject drugs
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Individuals with chronic conditions, like liver disease
How is Hepatitis B Treated?
There is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis B (the short-term infection), but for chronic hepatitis B (long-term infection), antiviral medications may be prescribed to help manage the virus and prevent liver damage. These medications can reduce the virus level in your body, and in some cases, they can lower the risk of developing liver damage or liver cancer.
FAQs
1. Can I get hepatitis B from casual contact, like shaking hands or hugging?
No, hepatitis B is not spread through casual contact like shaking hands, hugging, or sharing food and drinks. It is spread through contact with infected blood or other body fluids, such as during unprotected intercourse or sharing needles.
2. How long after exposure do symptoms of hepatitis B appear?
Symptoms of hepatitis B usually appear 1 to 4 months after exposure, although many people, especially young children, may not show symptoms at all, which makes the virus easy to spread.
3. Can hepatitis B become chronic?
Yes, hepatitis B can become a chronic infection, especially in young children. Chronic hepatitis B increases the risk of liver disease, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and liver cancer. The virus can stay in the liver for many years without symptoms, so regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important.
4. Is there a cure for hepatitis B?
There is no cure for hepatitis B, but it can be managed with medications. Antiviral treatments can help control the virus, prevent liver damage, and reduce the risk of complications, including liver cancer.
5. How can I protect myself from hepatitis B?
The best way to protect yourself from hepatitis B is to get vaccinated. Additionally, avoid sharing needles or personal items like razors, and practice safe intercourse by using condoms. If you're at higher risk, such as working in healthcare or traveling to areas with a high incidence of hepatitis B, consider getting vaccinated.
