Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can range from a short-term illness to a long-lasting chronic condition that increases the risk of liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 296 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B, making it a significant global health concern.
Worldwide, an estimated 296 million people live with chronic hepatitis B, with many at risk of developing long-term complications such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). Despite being preventable with a highly effective vaccine, hepatitis B continues to spread, especially in regions with limited access to healthcare and screening programs.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets the liver, leading to inflammation. It is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. The virus can survive outside the body for up to seven days and still cause infection during that time.
There are two forms of hepatitis B :-
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Acute hepatitis B :- This form of the disease is short-term, usually lasting a few weeks or months. Many people recover completely with proper care.
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Chronic hepatitis B :- If the virus stays in the body for more than six months, it is considered chronic. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to severe liver damage over time.
Causes and Transmission of Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is primarily spread when blood, semen, or other body fluids from an infected person enter the body of someone who is not infected. Some of the most common ways the virus spreads include :-
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Unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner
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Sharing needles or syringes
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Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth
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Using unsterilized medical or dental instruments
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Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes that might be contaminated with blood
It’s important to note that hepatitis B does not spread through food, water, hugging, kissing, coughing, or sharing utensils, unlike some other types of hepatitis.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
The symptoms of hepatitis B can vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic. In many cases, especially in children, the disease may show no symptoms at all.
Symptoms of Acute Hepatitis B
In people who do experience symptoms, they may appear one to four months after exposure and can include :-
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Fatigue and weakness
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Loss of appetite
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Nausea and vomiting
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Abdominal pain, especially in the liver area (upper right side)
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Dark-colored urine
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Pale stools
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Joint pain
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Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
These symptoms may last for a few weeks to several months. Most adults recover fully from acute hepatitis B.
Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis B
Chronic hepatitis B often remains asymptomatic for years, which is why it’s sometimes called a “silent” disease. When symptoms do appear, they are typically related to liver damage and may include :-
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Persistent fatigue
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Easy bruising or bleeding
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Swelling in the abdomen or legs
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Confusion or memory problems (due to liver dysfunction)
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Jaundice in advanced stages
Without treatment, chronic hepatitis B can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
How is Hepatitis B Diagnosed?
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect :-
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HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) :- Indicates current infection
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Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B surface antibody) :- Shows immunity either from past infection or vaccination
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HBcAb (Hepatitis B core antibody) :- Suggests previous or ongoing infection
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HBV DNA :- Measures the amount of virus in the blood (viral load)
These tests help determine whether the infection is acute or chronic and guide the doctor in choosing the right treatment path.
In some cases, liver function tests, ultrasound, or liver biopsy may be done to assess liver damage.
Treatment for Hepatitis B
Acute Hepatitis B Treatment
There is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis B. Most people recover on their own with supportive care, including :-
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Rest
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Staying hydrated
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Avoiding alcohol
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Managing symptoms like nausea or pain with medication, if prescribed
Chronic Hepatitis B Treatment
For chronic hepatitis B, treatment focuses on controlling the virus, reducing liver inflammation, and preventing complications. Common treatments include :-
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Antiviral medications :- Such as tenofovir and entecavir, which help suppress the virus and reduce liver damage
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Regular monitoring :- Through blood tests and imaging to check liver function and disease progression
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Liver transplant :- In cases of liver failure or liver cancer, a transplant may be needed
Treatment decisions are usually based on age, overall health, liver condition, and viral load. Not everyone with chronic hepatitis B requires medication right away.
Prevention of Hepatitis B
One of the most effective ways to prevent hepatitis B is through vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and highly effective. It is typically given as a series of three or four shots over a six-month period.
Other preventive measures include :-
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Practicing safe sex
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Avoiding sharing needles or personal items
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Using sterile equipment in medical and dental procedures
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Ensuring safe blood transfusions
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Pregnant women should be tested for hepatitis B to prevent mother-to-child transmission
Infants born to hepatitis B-positive mothers should receive hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth.
Living with Hepatitis B
Being diagnosed with hepatitis B can be overwhelming, but many people live healthy, normal lives with proper management. It’s essential to :-
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Follow your doctor’s recommendations
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Attend regular checkups to monitor your liver health
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Avoid alcohol and limit medications that strain the liver
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Stay informed and educate close contacts
Support groups and counseling can also be helpful for emotional support and to stay motivated with treatment plans.
Conclusion
Hepatitis B is a preventable and manageable disease, but it can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Early detection and proper medical care are key to reducing the risk of complications. Vaccination remains the most powerful tool in the fight against hepatitis B.
