What Is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B refers to a serious viral infection that attacks the liver. This serious medical condition is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). According to Dr. Sunbal Zafar, Dr. Ayodele Osowo, and Dr. Olufemi Abiodun of the Gastroenterology Practice Associates in Arlington, and Southlake, TX, for most individuals, hepatitis B is a short-term condition – typically lasting six months or less.

However, hepatitis B can become chronic for some and potentially lead to more serious medical disorders and conditions despite the fact the virus is preventable by the use of safe and effective vaccines.

What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis B?

Symptoms of acute hepatitis B, which typically manifest one to four months after infection, vary from mild to intense/severe. And certain individuals (especially very young children) may show no apparent symptoms at all. Hepatitis B signs and symptoms may include–

• Abdominal pain.
• Fever.
• Joint pain.
• Dark urine.
• Nausea/vomiting - Loss of appetite.
• Weakness and fatigue.
• Jaundice – in which the skin and white of your eyes begin to turn yellow.

Care for acute hepatitis B should focus on making the person comfortable and recommend fluids and a healthy diet to prevent dehydration.

How Is Hepatitis B Transmitted?

Hepatitis B is largely transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids and is not transmitted through casual contact like a hug. Examples of potential transmission of the virus include –

• Unprotected Sexual Contact.
• Mother-to-Child Transmission: The baby can be prevented from having hepatitis B with vaccination at birth (with recommended boosters) as it helps protect against hepatitis B for at least 20 years.
• Sharing Personal items – for example, razors or toothbrushes.
• Sharing Needles – Accidental Needle Prick.
• Contact with open wounds or body fluid of an infected individual.

Most adults with hepatitis B recover fully, even if their symptoms happen to manifest severely.  

When hepatitis B becomes chronic, there is no cure, but the condition and symptoms should be managed and treated with medication. Specific meds for hepatitis B can slow the progression of the infection’s consequences and help with long-term prospects for those infected. Most people who start hepatitis B treatment must continue the treatment for life.

Contact Leading Arlington, and Southlake, TX Gastroenterologists Near You

If you know you've been exposed to hepatitis B (or think you have symptoms), contact Dr. Zafar, Dr. Osowo, Dr. Abiodun, or a team member of Gastroenterology Practice Associates at (817) 468-7200 or online - today.