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Chronic Hepatitis B
Description
Hepatitis B is a viral disease that causes inflammation of the liver. The virus responsible for causing this is HBV. A chronic infection refers to an infection that lasts for longer than six months. The chances of the infection becoming chronic are higher in younger patients.
Causes
The hepatitis virus is transmitted primarily by contacting the blood, semen or body fluid of an infected person. The most common ways of getting this infection are:
- Unprotected sex with an infected individual .
- Sharing of a needle.
- Transmission from an infected mother to child during childbirth.
- Needle prick injury.
Risk factors
The following factors contribute to a risk of developing hepatitis B infection:
- IV drug use through shared needles.
- Unprotected sex with multiple partners (especially with someone who has HBV).
- People who work in health care, or in an area that may require being exposed to human blood.
- Men who have sexual intercourse with other men.
- If the mother was infected during childbirth, the infant is at risk.
- Travelling to areas where infection is common (Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe or the Pacific Islands).
To lower this risk, precautionary measures such as the following should be taken:
- Vaccination: especially if you are exposed to blood at work, or if you are travelling to a place where infections are common.
- Using protection in the form of latex condoms may reduce the risk, but not eliminate it. It is important to know the HBV status of your partner.
- Using illegal drugs should be avoided. Sharing needles should be avoided at all costs.
Symptoms
It is possible for there to be no apparent signs or symptoms, however in most cases the following symptoms may be present:
- Jaundice. This refers to a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes.
- Fever and an upset stomach (nausea, reduced appetite and vomiting).
- Pale stools and dark colored urine.
- Fatigue and flu like symptoms.
If not managed properly, complications such as the following are a possibility:
- Liver failure, this occurs when the liver can no longer perform its functions effectively. A transplant may be needed.
- The risk of liver cancer is increased in patients who have chronic hepatitis B.
- Liver cirrhosis, or scarring may occur as a result of the inflammation that occurs in hepatitis B.
- Kidney diseases or inflamed blood vessels are also possible complications.
Diagnosis
Your doctor may need the following to make a diagnosis:
- Clinical examination and history. Signs and symptoms along with relevant history is an important part of diagnosing this disease.
- Blood Test: The blood tests detect the virus in the blood, and antibodies that fight the infection.
- Ultrasound: Liver Ultrasound may be used to help visualize the extent of the damage.
- Biopsy: A liver Biopsy may be indicated in some cases of chronic disease.
Management
Chronic hepatitis usually requires treatment to reduce risk of complications, and to avoid transmission.
- Antiviral medication such as entecavir, tenofovir, lamivudine, adefovir, or telbivudine may be prescribed.
- Interferon injections may be used in some cases.
- Liver transplants may be required in cases where severe damage has occurred.
There is a vaccine available for hepatitis B, and should be used before travelling to countries where it is common. Babies and healthcare professionals who might come into contact with infected blood should also be vaccinated.
When to consult a doctor?
A doctor should be consulted if:
- You have been exposed to hepatitis B.
- Infection is suspected due to signs and symptoms.
- A physician should also be consulted if symptoms persist, even after treatment.
Available Medicine for Chronic Hepatitis B
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