
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is common worldwide and is transmitted through blood, semen or other body fluids. This disease can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). While acute hepatitis B usually clears up on its own, chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious health problems, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and nausea. Vaccination is the most effective preventive method against Hepatitis B. Treatment for chronic hepatitis B aims to slow the progression of the disease and reduce liver damage.
Hepatitis B Treatment
Treatment of hepatitis B varies depending on the acute or chronic form of the disease. Acute Hepatitis B usually does not require specific treatment and most people recover completely. However, in severe cases, supportive care in hospital may be required. The aim of chronic Hepatitis B treatment is to reduce the activity of the virus, prevent liver damage and reduce the risk of liver cancer. Antiviral medications are used to slow the proliferation of the virus and protect liver function. Treatment is individualized according to the severity of the disease and the condition of the liver. Chronic Hepatitis B treatment is usually long-term and requires regular medical monitoring.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
Symptoms of hepatitis B are usually mild and may include jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, and dark urine. Some people, especially chronic cases, may have no obvious symptoms.
Ways of Transmission of Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is transmitted through direct contact with the blood, semen, or other body fluids of an infected person. This can happen during sexual contact, shared syringe use, or from mother to baby during birth.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccine is an effective method of preventing the disease and is usually administered shortly after birth. Vaccination is recommended for people who have not been exposed to the Hepatitis B virus and are not infected.
Hepatitis B and Liver Health
Chronic Hepatitis B may increase the risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Therefore, chronic Hepatitis B patients should be monitored with regular medical follow-up and liver function tests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is transmitted through the blood, semen, or other body fluids of an infected person. It can be transmitted sexually, through shared needles, or from mother to baby during birth.
Symptoms of hepatitis B may include jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, and dark urine. Some people may not have obvious symptoms.
Acute Hepatitis B usually clears up on its own. Chronic Hepatitis B cannot be completely cured, but can be managed with antiviral medications and the risk of liver damage can be reduced.
The Hepatitis B vaccine is very effective in providing protection against the Hepatitis B virus and is usually administered as a series of vaccinations starting shortly after birth.
People with chronic Hepatitis B can lead normal, active lives with regular medical follow-up and healthy lifestyle choices. Regular check-ups and medication when necessary are important to maintain liver health.