Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is viral hepatitis. It can be both acute and chronic infection. Acute infection is only short-lived whereas chronic infection is a long-term infection that lasts usually for 6 months or to the rest of life. Initially, there are no symptoms of this disease. They develop gradually in case of acute infection. There are no symptoms in people with chronic infection. Acute hepatitis b doesn’t require any treatment whereas for chronic infection proper treatment is required. There are various hepatitis b treatment hospitals in our country and worldwide.
Symptoms: The signs and symptoms of Hepatitis B include: abdominal pain, dark color of the urine, yellowish skin and sclera, nausea, fever, and fatigue. The incubation period of this virus is 1-6 months i.e it takes 1-6 months for this virus to show its symptoms.
Mode of Transmission: The hepatitis b virus can be transmitted by exposure to the infected blood or body fluids. It can be transmitted through the use of infected needles used for intravenous drug injection and blood transfusion. It can also be transmitted sexually if the person has intercourse with an infected person. The virus is transmitted by exposure to a patient’s secretions. However, the virus is not transmitted through mere physical contact with the infected person such as touching, hugging and it does not spread from mother to child during breastfeeding.
Diagnosis: If you observe any signs or symptoms of the Hepatitis B virus, immediately consult the doctor Hepatitis B is diagnosed using blood tests. The blood sample is tested for either the presence of antigen or antibody. These tests include Hepatitis B surface antigen test, core antigen test, and surface antibody tests. The virus can be diagnosed using techniques such as liver ultrasound and liver biopsy. The doctor may recommend tests of the individuals who are at high risks such as those taking intravenous drug therapy, pregnant women, receive kidney dialysis, and those having HIV.
Treatment: Acute hepatitis B infection does not usually require treatment. People recover themselves by taking rest and proper hydration. Chronic hepatitis B infection is treated using antiviral drugs which are against the virus and help them from getting the infection in the future. Antiviral drugs are administered orally that is by mouth. If the infection is severe then you may get a liver transplant. In this, the damaged liver is replaced by another liver from a deceased donor. The liver is severely damaged in case of liver cirrhosis.
Prevention: Vaccines are recommended for the prevention of Hepatitis B. The first dose is recommended for the babies on the day of birth. The vaccine helps in the production of immunoglobulins which help in fighting the virus later on in the body. The other preventive measures are that one should avoid having unprotected sex. Use condoms while having oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse. Avoid using drugs as the contaminated needles may become the cause of HBV.
Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can cause complications if not detected earlier. It can cause potentially life-threatening conditions. It is transmitted usually through contact with body fluids. As it is said “Prevention is better than Cure”, therefore avoid those situations which can lead to this disease by taking preventive measures. If you observe any signs and symptoms related to hepatitis b, always consult the doctor. Our country offers one of the best hospital hepatitis b treatment. There are many specialist doctors such as gastroenterologists and hepatologists who work specifically for liver-related disorders.