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Hepatitis B Symptoms

FAQ About Hepatitis B

Many people have heard of Hepatitis B, but not very many people are aware of the symptoms. While Hepatitis B can cause serious liver damage or consequences that can affect the individual for life, other symptoms can be milder. Increase your knowledge of the symptoms of Hepatitis B and what steps to take to enjoy a successful recovery.

What is Hepatitis B?

The Hepatitis B is an infection that can either be acute or chronic. It is caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis is a disease characterized by an inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A, B, and C are separate viruses that produce many similar effects. However, unlike Hepatitis A that often goes away without treatment, Hepatitis B (and C), usually produce more serious symptoms and require more vigorous treatments. Hepatitis B symptoms rarely result in death. In fact, they may last only a brief time. HBV, on the other hand, can lead to cirrhosis or cancer of the liver which can produce life-threating symptoms.

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A More Detailed Look at Hepatitis B Symptoms

Many people aren’t aware showing no symptoms is one of the most common symptoms of Hepatitis B. Nearly half of all the individuals infected with HBV are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. The symptoms of HBV, when present, can be so mild that individuals often confuse them with a cold or flu and the symptoms pass and the affected individual is left unaware of their infection.

Common symptoms of Hepatitis B include:

  • Dark-colored urine
  • Bowel movements that are pale or clay-colored
  • Jaundice; yellowing of the eyes and skin
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Hives
  • Joint Pain

Hepatitis B may be an acute infection for some. This means that as the immune system works to rid the body of the infection, the symptoms of Hepatitis B disappear on their own. However, others experience chronic Hepatitis B, where the body can’t get rid of the virus. The symptoms of chronic Hepatitis B are no different than those with an acute HBC infection and many show no symptoms and are left unaware of the infection.

Though the symptoms may go away on their own, the infection won’t go away without proper treatment. If left untreated, Hepatitis B can progress to produce severe health complications. Testing not only provides you with the results of your infection, it points you in the right direction to receive treatment prescribed by an experienced doctor.

Hepatitis B Prevention

There are many ways to prevent Hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways as it can offer protection for life. Like many others, you might have been vaccinated at birth or during your childhood. Not sure if you’ve been vaccinated? You doctor can help you determine if getting the vaccine is best for you or not.

It is important to know how Hepatitis B can be transmitted to better protect yourself and your partner from contracting it. HBV is very contagious, reports from the Center for Disease Control state that Hepatitis B is 50 to 100 times more infections than HIV. Hepatitis B is contracted though bodily fluids: vaginal fluids, semen, blood, and urine. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Practicing safe sex is another way to prevent Hepatitis B. Safe sex practices include, but are not limited to, the use of dental dams or condoms and abstinence.

Sharing needles, toothbrushes, razors, or other instruments that can transfer infected blood from one individual to another can place you at risk for contracting Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is not transmitted by means of kissing, breastfeeding, sharing food, coughing, sneezing, hugging, or hand holding.

If there is a chance you may have been exposed to HBV or if you are experiencing symptoms of Hepatitis B, we recommend you get tested as soon as possible. We also recommend regular testing for you and your sexual partner, or partners to help prevent transmitting any STDs.

Testing for Hepatitis B

Testing for Hepatitis B can prove to be beneficial for your health. If there is a chance you might be pregnant, the importance of testing for Hepatitis B is even greater. The virus is highly contagious and can be passed to your baby, so testing is imperative.

Even individuals who get regular physicals and gynecological exams should be tested regularly for Hepatitis B since it isn’t typically checked for during a usual routine visit unless it has been requested.

Testing requires a blood test. If you have been infected in less than two months, your test may come back as a false negative. This can be true even if you currently have symptoms of Hepatitis B and have HBV in your system. You’re probably wondering why. It takes approximately two months after being infected to develop the HBV antibodies the test detects. Retesting may be necessary to ensure the accuracy of negative results.

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Treatment for Hepatitis B

After about 4 to 8 weeks, the symptoms of Hepatitis B generally go away on their own. There is currently no cure for HBV, but over 90% of infected adults experience a full recovery. No further treatment may be necessary if your Hepatitis B symptoms leave on their own. Ensuring you get enough rest, drink sufficient amounts of water, and follow a nutritious diet, may be all your doctor recommends.

Treatment is often slightly different for those with chronic Hepatitis B symptoms. You’ll want to avoid alcohol, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and other things that can lead to liver damage. Your doctor can prescribe a safe medication that will help to reduce the effects of your Hepatitis B symptoms. Over-the-counter medications are available, but you should be careful as they may cause serious damage to your liver. Consult your doctor before consuming any supplements, alcohol, or drugs to ensure your health and safety.

Those with chronic HBV will likely be carriers throughout their life. If you are experiencing no symptoms and are properly taking your mediation, you can still be contagious. It is vital to your health, and the health of your partner, that you always practice safe sex and keep on open conversation about your infection.

Support groups are available for those with Hepatitis B. These groups provide emotional support to those experiencing livelihood with a chronic illness. Many find it helpful to talk to others sharing the same experiences and who can relate to the complications chronic illnesses bring.

Pregnancy and Hepatitis B

HBV is extremely contagious. Unfortunately, transmitting the virus to the baby during birth is possible. If you are pregnant, or think there is a possibility that you are pregnant, we recommend testing so you can know the status of your health. When properly treated, babies can experience recovery from the virus. However, when left untreated, your child could develop chronic symptoms of Hepatitis B.

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