Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection that can have serious effects in some cases. This infection is often spread when healthy people come into contact with blood, open sores, or the bodily fluids of someone with hepatitis B.
Most people experience an acute form of the virus, which usually resolves in less than six months. This short bout of infection is followed by lifelong immunity. However, other people experience chronic infections that contribute to long-term health issues. For instance, chronic hepatitis B infections are associated with scarring of the liver, a higher risk of cancer, and liver failure.
Most adults who contract hepatitis B will experience symptoms, but it may take up to six months before they present. Common symptoms include:
Keep in mind that children under five rarely show any symptoms of the virus. In this case, a blood test is the best way to confirm that a child has hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B cannot spread through food or water, or shared utensils. It also cannot be transmitted via coughing or sneezing. The most common causes of hepatitis B are:
The virus can also be passed along during childbirth, but symptoms can be prevented by vaccinating new-born babies whose mothers are infected.
Some people also have a higher chance of contracting hepatitis B based on a few risk factors:
Men who engage in sexual contact with other men also have a greater risk, which is why safe sex is so important. Using condoms during every sexual encounter can greatly reduce the risk of illness, regardless of gender.
If you believe you’ve been exposed to the virus, receiving an antibody injection within 24 hours can prevent ill-effects when the shot is followed up by a hepatitis B vaccination. Acute infections usually resolve on their own with bed rest and fluid intake until the symptoms run their course.
As for chronic infections, lifelong treatment will be necessary to manage symptoms. These treatments can include antiviral medications, infections to help the immune system fight off the illness, and liver transplants when damage is severe.
When it comes to prevention, most children and adults are encouraged to receive the hepatitis B vaccine. Avoiding drugs and engaging in safe sex can also greatly reduce your risk.