Hepatitis B (HBV) is a viral infection that attacks the liver, causing inflammation and affecting the liver's ability to function properly.
Hepatitis B can be categorized as either of the following:
Acute hepatitis B – a short-term infection that lasts less than six months
Chronic hepatitis B – a long-term infection that lasts more than six months
While many people recover completely from acute hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious complications, including liver scarring (cirrhosis), liver cancer, and liver failure.
How Is Hepatitis B Spread?
Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, including:
- Blood
- Semen
- Vaginal fluids
- Saliva
Common ways the virus spreads include:
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Sharing drug-use equipment
- Accidental needle-stick injuries
- Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth
If you are pregnant and have hepatitis B, talk with your healthcare provider about ways to help protect your baby from infection.
What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis B?
Many people with hepatitis B do not experience symptoms right away. Symptoms may appear anywhere from a few weeks to four months after exposure and can range from mild to severe.
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Abdominal pain, especially near the liver
- Dark urine
- Muscle and joint pain
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
If you believe you have been exposed to hepatitis B or are experiencing symptoms, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Preventive treatment may help reduce the risk of infection if received shortly after exposure.
How Is Hepatitis B Diagnosed?
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through a series of blood tests that detect:
- Hepatitis B antigens
- Hepatitis B antibodies
- Hepatitis B viral DNA
These tests help determine whether you:
- Have a current hepatitis B infection
- Had a previous infection and recovered
- Have immunity from vaccination
Is There a Cure for Hepatitis B?
There is currently no cure for hepatitis B. However, effective treatments are available to help manage chronic infection, reduce liver damage, and lower the risk of complications.
Many people with acute hepatitis B recover completely without long-term treatment.
How Is Hepatitis B Treated?
Treatment depends on whether the infection is acute or chronic.
Acute Hepatitis B
Most acute infections resolve on their own. Treatment typically focuses on supportive care, including:
- Adequate rest
- Proper nutrition
- Staying hydrated
- Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider
Chronic Hepatitis B
For chronic hepatitis B, antiviral medications may be prescribed to:
- Slow the progression of liver disease
- Reduce liver inflammation
- Lower the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer
- Decrease the likelihood of transmitting the virus to others
Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual condition.
Can Hepatitis B Be Prevented?
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection.
The hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as a series of three doses:
- Initial dose
- Second dose one month later
- Final dose six months after the first dose
The vaccine is recommended for all infants, children, and unvaccinated adults. It is especially important for people who:
- Work in healthcare or public safety
- Have chronic liver disease
- Have multiple sexual partners
- Use injectable drugs
- Live with someone who has hepatitis B
- Work in correctional facilities or other group living environments
- Travel to regions where hepatitis B is common
How Can I Protect Myself?
In addition to vaccination, you can reduce your risk of hepatitis B by:
- Practicing safer sex and using protection
- Discussing hepatitis B and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with your partner
- Avoiding the sharing of needles, syringes, or drug-use equipment
- Choosing reputable, licensed facilities for tattoos and piercings
- Avoiding contact with another person's blood or bodily fluids
- Getting vaccinated before traveling to areas where hepatitis B is more common
When Should I See a Doctor?
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you:
- Believe you have been exposed to hepatitis B
- Develop symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, nausea, or abdominal pain
- Have a partner or household member who has hepatitis B
- Are pregnant and have concerns about hepatitis B exposure
Early diagnosis and treatment can help protect your liver health and reduce the risk of long-term complications.