HEPATITIS B
WHAT IS HEPATITIS B?
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver that can become permanent liver damage. Hepatitis B is found in most bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, urine, and semen/vaginal secretions. hepatitis A and B can also be transmitted through sexual contact.
HOW DO YOU GET HEPATITIS B?
Sexual contact is not the only way. It is also possible to contract it by sharing a razor, toothbrush, and eating utensils with an infected person.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEPATITIS B?
Mild cases cause flu-like symptoms and can progress to other symptoms:
Chronic carriers can have no symptoms or can suffer from chronic liver disease, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Many infected people never develop symptoms.
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- abdominal pain
- Dark colored urine
- Jaundice
Chronic carriers can have no symptoms or can suffer from chronic liver disease, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Many infected people never develop symptoms.
HOW IS HEPATITIS DIAGNOSED?
Hepatitis is diagnosed through blood tests.
HOW IS HEPATITIS B TREATED?
Most adults with acute Hepatitis B recover on their own within a few weeks or months. There is no cure or specific treatment. Immune system modulators and antiviral drugs can be used for chronic infections.
HEPATITIS B VACCINATIONS
There is a vaccination for Hepatitis B that has proven effective. It is recommended for everyone under the age of 19 and for adults who are at an increased risk of contracting it.