What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B, caused by HBV, can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting >6 months). Chronic infection raises the risks of liver failure, cancer, and cirrhosis.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?

Acute hepatitis B symptoms may not appear for months. However, common symptoms include:

Any hepatitis B symptoms should be addressed as soon as possible. The symptoms of this viral disease worsen in adults over the age of 60.

What are the causes of Hepatitis B?

Common causes of Hepatitis B transmission include:

Sexual Contact

Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected individual can expose one to the virus through contact with infected bodily fluids.

Using Contaminated Needles

Reusing needles, particularly among intravenous drug users, poses a significant risk of transmission as the virus can be present in blood and bodily fluids.

Pregnant Mothers

Mothers infected with Hepatitis B can transmit the virus to their babies during childbirth. However, this transmission can be prevented through the vaccination of newborns.

Unsterilized Equipment

Procedures such as tattooing, body piercing, or medical treatments conducted in unsanitary environments with contaminated equipment can lead to transmission if proper sterilization measures are not followed.

Blood Transfusion

If an individual receives blood from a donor infected with Hepatitis B, they can contract the virus through the transfusion process.

Sharing Contaminated Articles

Sharing personal items such as toothbrushes or razors that may have come into contact with infected blood or bodily fluids can facilitate the transmission of Hepatitis B.

Contaminated Blood Contact

Direct contact with infected blood, such as when it enters an open wound or mucous membrane, can result in transmission of the virus.

What are the risk factors for Hepatitis B?

People at high risk of HBV include:

How is Hepatitis B diagnosed?

Hepatitis B diagnosis involves physical exam and tests:

Diagnostic Tests

Liver Biopsy

A liver biopsy involves the removal of a liver tissue sample and sending it to a pathology lab to investigate whether patients have hepatitis B and how much scar tissue is present.

Ultrasound Test

The doctor may also perform non-invasive imaging tests to assess the amount of scar tissue in the liver (called fibrosis), which results from chronic liver inflammation. These examinations include ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and elastography.

Blood Tests

A blood test examines abnormal levels of particular enzymes and monitors white blood cell count (WBCs). A liver function test is a collection of blood tests used to assess liver function and may be suggested by the doctor.

What are the treatments for hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B treatment options include antiviral drugs and, in severe cases, liver transplantation. Regular medical checkups and lifestyle modifications are essential for effective management.

Here are a few approaches:

Antiviral Medications

These drugs are designed to suppress the replication of the hepatitis B virus in the body, reducing viral load and preventing further liver damage. They are typically taken orally and may need to be continued for an extended period to control the infection effectively.

Liver transplant (in severe cases)

When hepatitis B causes severe liver damage or liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary. This surgical procedure involves replacing the diseased liver with a healthy liver from a donor, allowing the patient to regain liver function and improve overall health.

Regular medical checkups

Consistent monitoring of liver function and viral load is crucial for managing hepatitis B effectively. These checkups allow healthcare providers to assess the progression of the disease, evaluate treatment efficacy, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Lifestyle management (hydration, diet, rest, no alcohol)

Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in managing hepatitis B and supporting liver health. Staying hydrated, following a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and avoiding alcohol are essential for reducing liver inflammation and preventing further damage.