Hepatitis B
Description
This is a serious disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can cause scarring
of the liver, liver failure and cancer. It is spread from one person to another via bodily fluids,
primarily, blood. It can be transmitted when these fluids come in contact with broken skin or a mucus
membrane of an uninfected person.
HBV has two phases: acute and chronic. If acute, a small portion of individuals can develop a severe form of the virus called fulminant hepatitis. If it is chronic, then the infection has lasted longer than six months, and may never go away. There are an estimated 1.25 million people who are living with chronic hepatitis B in the United States.
Because the liver is such an essential organ within the human body, it is critical to seek treatment for this virus.
Symptoms
With hepatitis B, individuals typically fight off infection within a few months, developing
an immunity that lasts a lifetime. While most recover completely, some do not and they become
carriers. An estimated 30% of individuals infected with HBV have no symptoms, and a carrier can spread
it to others even when their own symptoms have vanished.
Symptoms typically develop within 1-6 months of exposure
and can include the following:
• jaundice
• unusually light colored stool
• unexplained fatigue that persists for weeks or months
• flu-like symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
• abdominal pain
• appetite loss
• pain over right side of abdomen
Tests
Because there are often no symptoms, many do not realize they have the disease. A routine blood
test may show abnormalities in the liver. In specific cases of suspected HBV infection, a blood test
will be taken to look closely at the function of the liver. The test will detect the virus and
which type it is.
Additional tests may be ordered based on results of the blood test to rule out other medical conditions. These tests may include X-rays, ultrasound and liver biopsies, but only in rare cases.
Outcomes
A series of three immunizations over about four to five months, serve to boost the immune system
in order to fight off the infection. The body responds to the vaccines by developing antibodies
against HBV. The immunizations protect the body against HBV infection for at least 15 years.
Rest and ample nutrition can aid in recovery from symptoms. Tylenol should be avoided as a pain reliever since it can harm the liver.
Individuals with chronic hepatitis B should seek frequent health care.
