The Facts
Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can affect children and adults. According to the Hepatitis B Foundation, hepatitis B can be detected through the blood. This blood test is referred to as the HBsAg test. HBsAg stands for "hepatitis B surface antigen." During this test, the outer surface of the hepatitis B virus triggers an antibody response. A positive HBsAg result means the person has hepatitis B.
There are two types of hepatitis B: acute and chronic. A patient with acute hepatitis B recovers within about six months after getting the infection. Chronic hepatitis B continues after a period of six months. If hepatitis B is not treated, it can cause liver cancer, which could be fatal.
How It Is Spread
There are a variety of ways to get hepatitis B, including by exchanging bodily fluids through sex. Blood also transmits the virus, and another common way to spread it is by sharing needles with an infected party. Sharing toothbrushes or razors that have been exposed to the virus can increase the risk of spreading hepatitis B as well. Furthermore, according to the Hepatitis B Research Network, if a pregnant woman is infected with hepatitis B, it's possible for her to spread the virus to her child during childbirth.
Signs
Unfortunately, someone could be infected with hepatitis B and not show any signs, which can increase the risk of infection for others. However, there are many common symptoms to look out for, such as extreme lethargy, jaundice, a swollen stomach, pain in joints and vomiting. Some people even experience a sense of confusion and sleep disruption.
Treatment and Prevention
Although there is no cure for hepatitis B, many medications are available to treat the virus. Some of these medicines can retard the virus and prevent it from turning into a more dangerous ailment like liver cancer. A hepatologist or a gastroenterologist who specializes in hepatitis B can run tests and gain a general status of your liver's health and determine the correct treatment for you.
Additionally, when infected mothers give birth, it's recommended that their newborns receive the hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) shot within 12 hours of birth and two more shots over the course of six months to fully protect them from the virus. After all the shots are complete, it's important to test the children again to make sure the virus isn't detected.
To prevent spreading the virus, there is a vaccine available for those that have not already been exposed to the virus. If you're already infected, the vaccine will not work. However, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle and consume a well-balanced diet. Also, it's a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol and smoking, since these two activities can severely affect the liver.
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