What is Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver that may cause fever, fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, pale stools, liver pain, nausea, and vomiting. Many people, however, have no symptoms. The inflammation is caused by the hepatitis B virus, one of the three most common hepatitis viruses (the others are hepatitis A and C). The disease spreads through blood, vaginal fluid, semen, and other body fluids of an infected person. The virus can be passed by sharing drug needles, having sex with an infected person, and sharing personal items such as toothbrushes or razors. A mother can pass the disease to her child at birth. Most people who get the hepatitis B virus fight it off in six months with rest and close monitoring by a doctor. Some people go on to develop chronic hepatitis B, a more serious form of the disease. Treatment with antiviral medication helps prevent liver damage in people with chronic hepatitis B. The hepatitis B vaccine offers lifelong immunity against this infection.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B are-

Fever,Decreased appetite,Nausea or vomiting,Tenderness to touch,Yellow eyes,Pain or discomfort,Fatigue,Yellow skin,Dark colored (brown) urine

Treatment

Anti-nausea medications and other treatments help relieve symptoms in people with acute hepatitis B. Your doctor may suggest avoiding certain medications that are toxic to the liver while you are recovering. If you develop chronic hepatitis B, your doctor will monitor your liver and determine if and when you need treatment with antiviral medications.

Self Care

Self-care for hepatitis B includes: 

1.Getting plenty of rest 

2.Drinking plenty of fluids 

3.Not overexerting yourself 

4.Eating a healthy diet 

5.Avoiding alcohol 

6.Avoiding acetaminophen (Tylenol, for example) and other medications that may harm the liver.

When to See Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you think you have been exposed to hepatitis B, if you have symptoms of the disease, or if you have been diagnosed with hepatitis B and your symptoms don't get better in two to three weeks or are getting worse. If you have severe fever or pain, can't keep down fluids, or feel confused or delirious get immediate medical help.

Diagnosed By

Your doctor can diagnose hepatitis B by taking your medical history, doing a physical exam, and doing blood tests.