What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that leads to liver inflammation. In some cases, the infection is short-term and may not cause any noticeable symptoms, often clearing up without the need for medical treatment. This is known as acute hepatitis B. However, in others, the virus can remain in the body, developing into a chronic (long-lasting) condition, which can result in serious complications such as cirrhosis or liver failure.

While hepatitis B cannot be cured, certain medications can help manage the virus. When the virus becomes inactive, it remains in the body but is no longer contagious or actively damaging the liver.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B infection?

It’s possible to be infected with hepatitis B and not show any symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, when symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen.

• Ongoing tiredness or low energy.

• Elevated body temperature (fever).

• Aches or stiffness in the joints.

• Decreased appetite.

• Feeling sick to your stomach or vomiting.

• General weakness or fatigue.

In some cases, you might also notice symptoms related to liver problems, like:

• Dark-coloured urine.

• Pale or grayish stools.

• Swelling in the abdomen, legs, or arms due to fluid buildup.

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (a condition known as jaundice).

What are the causes of hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B spreads when come into contact with the body fluids of an infected person. These fluids can include blood, saliva, semen, vaginal fluids, menstrual blood, or even amniotic fluid. Transmission can occur in situations such as:

• Sharing needles or syringes with an infected individual

• Having unprotected sexual intercourse with someone carrying the virus

• Being accidentally injured by a contaminated medical tool, like a scalpel.

Causes of Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B can affect anyone, but certain factors may raise your chances of getting the infection. You may be at higher risk if you:

• Have sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV.

• Use medications that suppress the immune system to prevent it from mistakenly attacking healthy cells.

• Undergo regular dialysis treatment.

• Already have another liver condition.

How long can hepatitis B be transmitted to others?

You remain contagious as long as the hepatitis B virus is active in your system. In cases of acute hepatitis B, the infection may last for up to six months, during which you can transmit the virus to others. For individuals with chronic hepatitis B, the ability to spread the virus continues throughout their lifetime. However, if you have chronic inactive hepatitis B, the likelihood of passing it on is much lower. A healthcare professional can perform blood tests to determine whether your virus is currently active or inactive. 

What are the potential complications associated with hepatitis B?

Both acute and chronic hepatitis B can lead to several serious health problems, including:

• Sudden liver failure: in some cases, the liver can stop working very quickly. People with acute hepatitis B face a higher chance of this rapid and severe liver damage.

• Gradual liver failure: Over time, long-term hepatitis B infection can slowly weaken the liver until it can no longer function properly

• Cirrhosis: this condition occurs when the liver develops too much scar tissue as it repeatedly tries to heal itself from ongoing injury. Excessive scarring makes it harder for the liver to do its job.

• Hepatitis D co-infection: A person already infected with hepatitis B may also contract hepatitis D, which only develops in those who have hepatitis B.

• Reactivation of hepatitis B: in some people, the virus can become active again, especially after taking medications that weaken the immune system or after stopping certain treatments.

• Liver cancer: chronic hepatitis B is one of the main causes of liver cancer worldwide.

How is hepatitis B infection confirmed?

Your doctor or healthcare provider will start by discussing your symptoms and performing a physical check-up. They may also ask about your family’s history of liver conditions. In addition, they could ask questions such as:

• Whether your job puts you at risk of coming into contact with the hepatitis B virus 

• If you use intravenous (IV) DUGS

• Whether you’ve had unprotected sex with someone who might be infected with hepatitis B

Some of these questions can feel very personal or uncomfortable to answer. However, your healthcare provider asks them only to better understand your situations so they can give you the right care and support.

What tests are used to detect hepatitis B?

To check for hepatitis B and any related liver damage, your doctor may order several types of tests:

• Blood work to determine whether the infection is recent (acute) or long-term (chronic)

• Imaging procedures, such as elastography, to assess the condition of your liver and look for signs of scarring or cirrhosis.

• Liver biopsy if a closer, more detailed examination of liver tissue is needed beyond what blood tests and imaging can show.

What treatment options are available for hepatitis B?

The way hepatitis B is treated depends on the type of infection you have and your overall health. Care plans may involve one or more of the following approaches:

Preventive care after exposure

If you’ve been in contact with the virus, quick action can stop the infection from developing. Doctors may recommend:

• Hepatitis B vaccine: A series of shots designed to help your immune system recognize and fight off the virus

• Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG): A medication that provides immediate protection by supplying ready-made antibodies to help your body fight the virus

These treatments are most effective when given within 24 hours of exposure.

Treatment for Acute Hepatitis B

There isn't a direct cure for short–term hepatitis B. in most cases, the body clears the virus on its own. However, supportive care may be given, such as:

• Fluids through an IV: If vomiting or diarrhea causes a lot of fluid loss, IV hydration can help prevent severe dehydration and keep the body stable.

Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis B

Long-term hepatitis B is managed based on the severity of the infection and any liver damage. Options may include:

• Monitoring: Regular check-ups every few months, with blood tests and imaging scans, to track liver health and detect any changes early.

• Medication: Antiviral drugs or other treatments may be prescribed to lower the amount of virus in your body, reduce liver damage, and decrease the risk of spreading the infection. These medicines are usually taken for life.

• Surgical options: if the virus has caused severe liver damage for cancer, surgery may be needed. This can include removing a portion of the liver or, in severe cases, a liver transplant.

How can I protect myself from getting hepatitis B?

Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself from hepatitis B. Full protection requires three separate shots given over a six-month period. While you’re still completing the vaccine series, you can lower your chances of getting infected by taking the following steps:

• Use protection during sexual activity: if you aren’t certain of your partner’s hepatitis B status, use a condom made of latex or polyurethane.

• Avoid sharing personal items. The virus can spread through small traces of blood on objects like razors, toothbrushes, or nail clippers.

• Be careful with needles. If you inject drugs, always use clean, sterile needles and never share them with others.

How can I avoid spreading the infection to others?

The first thing you should do is determine whether you’re infected. If you’re diagnosed with acute hepatitis B, it’s important to stay home and avoid close contact with others until you’ve fully recovered. For those with chronic hepatitis B, a healthcare provider may recommend treatment to help lower the chances of passing the virus to others.

How can I manage my health if I have chronic hepatitis B?

The symptoms of chronic hepatitis B can shift over time, so it’s important to keep track of your health and work closely with your healthcare provider. Here are some ways to take care of yourself and protect your liver:

• Limit alcohol consumption. Drinking regularly can put extra stress on your liver and lead to further damage, so it’s best to avoid alcohol or keep it to a minimum.

• Maintain a balanced diet. Choose meals that include lean proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Diets like the Mediterranean plan can help support liver function.

• Find emotional and social support. Talking with people who understand what you’re experiencing can make it easier to cope with challenges.

• Protect your liver from other infections. Get vaccinated against hepatitis A if you haven’t already, and consider testing for hepatitis C. If you test positive, see treatment, as hepatitis C can often be cured.

• Be cautious with medications and supplements. Some prescription drugs and herbal remedies can harm your liver or interfere with other treatments, so always check with your doctor first.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider if You Have Hepatitis B

• Tipu tratamentu saida maka ita-boot rekomenda ba ha'u nia Hepatitis B?

• Oinsá ha'u bele hapara virus ne'e atu labele da'et ba ema seluk?

• Infesaun ne'e sei lakon, ka ha'u sei iha ida-ne'e ba moris tomak?

• Dala hira maka ha'u tenke mai halo ezame ka teste?

• Saida maka ha'u bele halo atu mantein ha'u nia aten forte no saudavel?