Hepatitis B is a critical infection that affects the liver. This infection is spread through the Hepatitis B Virus or HBV that targets the liver cells. In some cases, Hepatitis B does not cause severe damage to the liver cells and lasts only for a short duration and treatment is not required. However, in some other cases, the infection can be severe, leading to various health issues like liver scarring and cancer.
Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus:
The transmission medium of HBV is generally the body fluids of the affected person, like blood. The various ways in which HBV can be transmitted are given as follows:
- Sexual contact with an infected person can cause the transmission of the virus, especially through the semen, blood, or saliva of the infected person.
- Making use of syringes or needles that contain blood or any other body fluid of the infected person. The transmission can also occur while cleaning or discarding such instruments.
- A newborn child is also prone to HBV if the mother is already infected with the virus.
- Residing with an infected person.
Common Symptoms of Hepatitis B:
If a person is infected with the Hepatitis B virus, the following symptoms can be seen
- Fever
- Joint and stomach pain
- Jaundice
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
These symptoms will be seen within six months after transmission.
How is HBV confirmed?
The presence of the Hepatitis B virus can be detected through a test. If any symptoms of the virus are seen, it is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. During the test, the presence of antigens and antibodies is detected in the blood. Antigens are the proteins of HBV, and the immunity system of the body develops antibodies. These are generally found in the blood of an infected person within ten weeks. If these last longer than six months, then the infection is considered to be severe (chronic).
If a person is affected by the Hepatitis B virus, it is important to get the necessary treatment as soon as possible. Generally, the treatment begins with an immune globulin that helps to control the virus.
Preventive Measures Against HBV:
It is rightly said that “Prevention is always better than cure.” Therefore, if there is a risk of Hepatitis B virus, it is important to take up the following measures:
- Avoid sexual activities with the infected person, especially without protection.
- Get your shot of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
- Avoid reusing syringes and needles used by the infected person.
- Use gloves while cleaning certain equipment used by the infected person. Wash your hands thoroughly post-cleaning.
- Ensure proper disposal of medical wastes such as bandages, syringes, needles, tampons, etc.
- Properly disinfect tools used for tattooing or ear piercing as these tools can have fluids of the infected person.
- Make sure to treat and cover all wounds or other minor injuries.
In addition to taking all the above-mentioned preventive measures, it is important to be in touch with a doctor for guidance and assistance.
Hepatitis B virus can damage the liver if relevant treatment is not received on time. Therefore, it is important to get tested if common symptoms of HBV are seen. The best preventive measure is to get the Hepatitis B vaccine and indulge in safe sexual practices that would reduce the risk of transmission.