Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. Some people clear the virus on their own, while others develop long-term infection that may lead to severe liver damage.

Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood or certain body fluids. Chronic hepatitis B increases the risk of liver cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. Vaccination and early diagnosis play an important role in preventing complications and reducing transmission.

Symptoms

Many people with hepatitis B have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may appear weeks to months after exposure.

Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain, especially on the right side

• Dark urine

• Pale or clay-colored stools

• Joint pain

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes

Symptoms of chronic hepatitis B may be mild or absent for many years.

Causes

Hepatitis B is caused by infection with the hepatitis B virus.

The virus spreads through:

• Contact with infected blood

• Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person

• Sharing needles, syringes or drug equipment

• From mother to baby during childbirth

• Sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes contaminated with blood

• Accidental needle-stick injuries in healthcare settings

Hepatitis B is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, coughing or sharing food.

Risk factors

Certain factors increase the risk of hepatitis B infection:

• Unprotected sex with multiple partners

• Living with or being in close contact with someone who has hepatitis B

• Injection drug use

• Working in healthcare or emergency services

• Being born to a mother infected with hepatitis B

• Travel to regions where hepatitis B is common

• Receiving dialysis or frequent blood exposure

Infants and young children are more likely to develop chronic infection if exposed.

Complications

Chronic hepatitis B can cause serious liver-related complications.

Possible complications include:

• Chronic liver inflammation

• Liver cirrhosis

• Liver failure

• Liver cancer

• Increased risk of death from liver disease

Early treatment and regular monitoring can help prevent or delay these complications.

Prevention

Hepatitis B is preventable with vaccination and safe practices.

Preventive measures include:

• Receiving the hepatitis B vaccine

• Using condoms during sexual activity

• Avoiding sharing needles or drug equipment

• Ensuring sterile equipment for tattoos and piercings

• Following safety precautions in healthcare settings

• Screening pregnant women and providing newborn vaccination

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against hepatitis B and its long-term complications.