What are the Causes and Symptoms of Hepatitis B?
October 14, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe, chronic condition. Here are the causes and symptoms of hepatitis B:
Causes:
- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and other bodily fluids.
- Mother-to-Child Transmission: An infected mother can pass the virus to her baby during childbirth.
- Unprotected Sex: Engaging in sexual intercourse with an infected individual without using protection can lead to transmission.
- Sharing Needles: Sharing needles or syringes with an infected person, often associated with drug use, is a common mode of transmission.
- Unsafe Medical Procedures: Unsafe medical practices, such as sharing contaminated medical equipment or improper sterilization of instruments, can spread the virus.
- Contaminated Objects: Contact with objects contaminated with infected blood or bodily fluids can also spread the virus.
- Body Piercing or Tattooing: Procedures involving needles or equipment that may not be adequately sterilized can transmit the virus.
Symptoms: The symptoms of hepatitis B can vary from mild to severe, and some individuals may not exhibit any symptoms at all. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and Weakness: Generalized fatigue and weakness, often accompanied by a feeling of being unwell.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction and the buildup of bilirubin.
- Loss of Appetite and Nausea: A decrease in appetite and a feeling of nausea or vomiting.
- Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or tenderness in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located.
- Joint and Muscle Pain: Aching muscles and joints.
- Fever and Chills: Elevated body temperature, accompanied by chills or fever.
- Dark Urine: Urine may appear dark in color due to liver function impairment.
- Pale Stools: Stools may be lighter in color than usual due to decreased bile production.
- Itchy Skin: Skin itching or rash, often related to the liver’s reduced ability to eliminate toxins.
- Flu-Like Symptoms: Symptoms resembling those of the flu, such as a headache and a sore throat.
- Digestive Issues: Diarrhea or light-colored stools may occur.
It’s important to note that some individuals, particularly those with chronic hepatitis B, may not experience noticeable symptoms for years. If you suspect you have hepatitis B or have been exposed to the virus, it’s essential to seek medical attention for testing, diagnosis, and appropriate management. Vaccination against hepatitis B is highly effective in preventing the disease, and routine vaccination is recommended, especially for high-risk individuals.