Hepatitis B: Important Information

Hepatitis B is one of the most widespread liver diseases globally, affecting approximately 2 billion people worldwide. In this article, we will explore more details about this condition.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, causing inflammation of its tissues, and is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). 

This infection can be short-term, known as acute hepatitis B, or long-term, known as chronic hepatitis B. The difference between the two types is as follows:

• Most people experience the acute form of the infection, where symptoms are severe but last for a short period, not exceeding 6 months, as the immune system can fight off the virus and recover.
• In other cases, the infection may become chronic, lasting for more than 6 months, which increases the risk of liver cancer or cirrhosis over time if left untreated.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B infection?

Not all infected individuals, especially young children, show symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they can range from mild to severe and typically emerge within 1 - 4 months of infection. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain.
• Fever.
• Dark urine.
• Pale or clay-colored stools.
• Loss of appetite.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Joint pain.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Swelling and fluid buildup in the abdomen, arms, and legs.

Acute infections usually have more severe symptoms and may sometimes require hospitalization, while chronic infections often have mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic for decades.

How do you get hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B primarily spreads when blood, semen, or other body fluids from an infected person enter the body of someone uninfected. It cannot be transmitted through coughing or sneezing. Common ways of transmission include:

1. From mother to child during childbirth.
2. Sexual contact with an infected person.
3. Sharing needles or syringes contaminated with infected blood.
4. Direct contact with open wounds of an infected person.
5. Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes, as the virus can survive on surfaces for up to 7 days.

How is hepatitis B diagnosed?

The doctor will first inquire about the patient's medical and family history, symptoms, and any factors that may increase the risk of liver disease. A physical examination will follow to check for typical signs of hepatitis B, such as jaundice or abdominal pain. 

Blood tests are the only way to confirm a hepatitis B infection. These tests can help determine:

• Whether the infection is acute or chronic?
• Whether the patient has had a past infection?
• Whether the body has developed immunity to the virus?
• Whether the infection is affecting liver function? 

The doctor may also recommend an ultrasound of the liver or a liver biopsy to assess the extent of liver damage.

Blazma offers all diagnostic tests for hepatitis B infection, such as the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis B Surface (HBs) Abs, both of which do not require specific conditions.

What treatment is available for hepatitis B?

Treatment depends on the patient's health and the status of the infection:

• Acute infection treatment: In many cases, acute hepatitis B does not require treatment, as the infection resolves on its own. Doctors may recommend rest, proper nutrition, and increased fluid intake, with close monitoring of the body. In severe cases, antiviral medications or hospitalization may be necessary to prevent complications.
• Chronic infection treatment: For chronic cases, the doctor will monitor liver health through regular tests and may recommend lifelong treatment, which typically includes antiviral medications, interferon injections, or a liver transplant if the liver is severely damaged.

Can the disease be prevented?

Yes, the best way to prevent hepatitis B is through vaccination. The CDC recommends that the following groups receive the vaccine:

• All infants, children, and adolescents under 19 years old who have not been vaccinated at birth.
• People with chronic liver disease or end-stage kidney disease.
• Individuals with sexually transmitted diseases, especially HIV.
• Healthcare and emergency workers, as well as anyone exposed to blood in their work.

By taking preventive measures and staying informed, it is possible to reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis B and protect liver health.