Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to serious health complications, including liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. It spreads through contact with infected blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. While some cases are acute and resolve on their own, others develop into chronic infections, requiring lifelong medical care.
Causes and Transmission
Hepatitis B is caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and spreads through various means, including:
- Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
- Sharing needles or syringes used for drug injections
- Blood transfusions with contaminated blood (though rare due to screening procedures)
- Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth
- Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes that have been in contact with infected blood
HBV does not spread through casual contact, such as hugging, coughing, or sharing food and drinks.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
Symptoms of hepatitis B vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic. They may appear within 1 to 4 months after exposure.
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Abdominal pain, especially near the liver
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
- Joint and muscle pain
While some individuals may recover fully, others develop chronic hepatitis B, which increases the risk of liver disease over time.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect HBV antigens, antibodies, and viral DNA. Doctors may also recommend liver function tests and imaging to assess liver damage.
Treatment options include:
- Antiviral medications: Drugs like entecavir and tenofovir help suppress the virus and slow liver damage.
- Regular monitoring: Chronic cases require routine check-ups to monitor liver function and prevent complications.
- Liver transplant: In severe cases of liver failure, a transplant may be necessary.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing hepatitis B is possible through vaccination and safe practices:
- Hepatitis B vaccine: The vaccine provides lifelong protection and is recommended for all infants and at-risk adults.
- Safe sex practices: Using condoms reduces the risk of transmission.
- Avoiding needle sharing: People who use injectable drugs should use sterile needles and avoid sharing equipment.
- Screening and blood safety: Blood donations undergo strict testing to prevent HBV transmission.
- Mother-to-child prevention: Pregnant women with hepatitis B should receive medical care to reduce transmission risk.
Global Hepatitis B Burden
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 296 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B in 2019, with over 820,000 deaths annually due to complications. Increasing vaccination coverage and public awareness remain key strategies in reducing the global impact.
Conclusion
Hepatitis B is a serious but preventable disease. Early detection, vaccination, and proper medical care significantly reduce its impact. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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