Hepatitis B

Overview

Hepatitis B is caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV). For many people, it goes away on its own within six months (acute). But for some, it lasts longer (chronic), which can lead to serious liver problems like cancer or scarring. 

Most adults recover completely from hepatitis B, even if they have strong symptoms. However, children and babies are more likely to get a long-lasting form of the infection.

A vaccine can stop hepatitis B virus infection, but once you have it, there’s no cure. If you’re infected, you can take steps to prevent spreading the virus to others.

How Do You Get Hepatitis B? 

You can get type B hepatitis by touching blood, saliva, semen, or other body fluids from someone who has the virus. They can spread it even if they don’t feel sick. Common ways this can happen include:

• Sharing needles, syringes, or drug equipment
• Using some toothbrushes, razors, or medical tools like glucose monitors
• Touching the blood or sores of an infected person
• Having sex with an infected person
• Contacting with blood from needles or sharp objects used by an infected person
• Being in a healthcare place where infections are not controlled well
• Passing it to a baby during pregnancy or birth

Symptoms

Not everyone shows the signs of hepatitis b. If you do, they can vary from mild to severe. Hepatitis B symptoms can happen during the early phase of the infection (acute) or later on if the infection continues (chronic). You can still spread the HBV infection whether you have symptoms or not.

Common symptoms that Hepatitis B causes are:

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness and fatigue
• Joint pain

You might also notice signs of liver problems, such as:

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Dark-colored urine
• Pale or clay-colored stool
• Swelling in your belly or limbs due to fluid buildup

During acute infection, liver-related symptoms can be more serious. Most people with an acute infection recover without treatment, but it’s important to see a physician if you have signs of liver issues.

In chronic infection, symptoms can be mild or vague, or you may not have any symptoms for a long time. If symptoms of liver disease appear later on, it could mean your liver is starting to have problems.

Diagnosis

Your physician will examine you and ask about your symptoms, health history, or if anyone in your family has liver disease.

The only way to know if you have hepatitis B is through blood tests, Liver function tests, and other tests to check your liver’s health.

• Hepatitis Tests

The CDC recommends a triple panel test that includes:

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)

This checks for a protein on the surface of the hepatitis B virus. If it’s in your blood, it means you have been infected and can pass it on to others.

• Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (anti-HBs)

This checks for antibodies your body makes to fight the virus. If it’s in your blood, it means you have fought off the virus or received the hepatitis B vaccine.

• Total Antibody to Hepatitis B Core Antigen (anti-HBc)

This tests for different types of antibodies made to fight hepatitis B. If it’s in your blood, it shows you have either a current or past infection, but it won’t be present if you’ve been vaccinated.

Your physician may also order an IgM antibody to the hepatitis core antigen (IgM anti-HBc) test. If this antibody is in your blood, it means you were infected with hepatitis B recently (less than 6 months ago), likely with acute hepatitis B.

If you’re pregnant, your physician may test for HBV DNA to decide if you need antiviral medicine to protect your baby.

After a hepatitis B diagnosis, your primary care physician may do more Liver biopsy to see if your liver has been affected. You might also need regular checkups and tests for liver disease every 6 months.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis B. For someone with acute hepatitis B, the focus is on making them feel better. They should eat healthy food and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if they are vomiting or having diarrhea.

Chronic hepatitis B, which lasts a long time, can be treated with oral medicines like tenofovir or entecavir. These medicines can:

• Slow down the progression of cirrhosis (liver scarring)
• Reduce the chances of developing liver cancer
• Improve long-term survival

Most people who start treatment for chronic hepatitis B will need to continue taking medicine for the rest of their life.

Based on new guidelines, over 50% of people with chronic hepatitis B may need treatment, depending on where they live and specific criteria.

In places with lower incomes, many people with liver cancer are diagnosed very late and may only live a few months after diagnosis. In wealthier countries, people are diagnosed earlier, which allows for Hepatitis B treatments like surgery or chemotherapy that can extend life for several months to a few years. In advanced countries, some people with cirrhosis or liver cancer may have liver transplants, but the success of this treatment varies.

Is Hepatitis B Infection curable? 

If you have a short-term infection or acute hepatitis b infection, your immune system can fight it off soon. Once you recover from this infection, you won’t get it again. A blood test can confirm if you’re now immune after overcoming the virus.

If your body can’t clear the infection during the early phase, it may become long-term. The lifelong condition is called chronic hepatitis B. Chronic hepatitis B cannot be cured, but treatment can help manage it. A blood test can show if you need treatment for a chronic HBV infection.

Is Hepatitis B Contagious?

Hepatitis B is contagious and spreads through contact with infected blood or body fluids. This can occur through activities like unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Hepatitis B is not transmitted through casual contact such as hugging or sharing food. 

Is There a Vaccine for Hepatitis B Virus?

Yes, there is a vaccine for hepatitis B available for everyone, from babies to older adults. It’s recommended for infants, children, and teens under 19 who haven’t been vaccinated. Adults aged 19 to 59 should also get the vaccine. Adults aged 60 or older should get it if they have risk factors for hepatitis B. Even those over 60 without known risk factors can still get the vaccine.

How Long Does the Hep B Vaccine Last?

People who have received all three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine usually do not need booster shots. The vaccine protects against hepatitis B for at least 20 years and likely for life.

Is Chronic Hepatitis B Infection Life Threatening?

Yes, chronic hepatitis B infection can be life-threatening as it increases the risk of severe liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing hepatitis and reducing these risks.

When To See A Doctor

If you think you’ve been in interaction with someone who has hepatitis B, visit your physician right away. Getting treatment within 24 hours can lower your risk of getting infected. If you have symptoms of hepatitis B, you need to discuss it with your physician to prevent hepatitis infection.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about Hepatitis B or any other medical condition, please see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment suggestions.