Hepatitis B is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that affects the liver. It can cause both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) liver disease.
How Is Hepatitis B Transmitted?
- Contact with infected blood or body fluids
- Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
- From mother to baby during childbirth
- Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment
- Through unsafe medical or dental procedures
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
Many people, especially children, may have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually appear 1 to 4 months after exposure and may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Joint pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Complications
- Chronic hepatitis B infection can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
- Some people clear the infection naturally, but others may carry the virus lifelong.
Prevention
- Hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective in preventing infection.
- Avoid sharing needles and practice safe sex.
- Screen blood products and ensure safe medical practices.
Treatment
- No cure exists, but antiviral medications can help control the virus and reduce liver damage.
- Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important for chronic cases.