Hepatitis B is a disease that can lead to serious consequences but can be brought under control through early diagnosis and prevention methods. Vaccination is the strongest defense method against this disease.
What is Hepatitis B?
It is an infectious disease caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) that leads to inflammation in the liver. The infection can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Acute Hepatitis B: Generally heals spontaneously within 6 months.
Chronic Hepatitis B: The virus becomes permanent in the body and can lead to diseases such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
How is Hepatitis B Transmitted?
Blood-borne: It can be transmitted through the use of shared syringes, non-sterile medical or cosmetic procedures such as tattoos and piercings, and uncontrolled blood transfusions.
Unprotected Sexual Intercourse: This is one of the most common ways Hepatitis B is transmitted.
Mother-to-Baby Transmission: It can be transmitted from an infected mother to the baby during birth.
Sharing Personal Items: It can be transmitted through items that may come into contact with blood, such as razors and toothbrushes.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis B?
-Weakness and fatigue
-Loss of appetite
-Nausea and vomiting
-Abdominal pain
-Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
-Dark-colored urine
-Light-colored stools
How is Hepatitis B Diagnosed?
Hepatitis B is diagnosed with simple blood tests. These tests evaluate the presence of the virus, whether the infection is acute or chronic, and the condition of the liver in detail.
If the doctor deems it necessary, they may request a liver ultrasound and a liver biopsy.
How is Hepatitis B Treated?
In most cases, no specific treatment is required for Acute Hepatitis B. The patient is advised to rest, eat healthily, and avoid alcohol and harmful substances.
In Chronic Hepatitis B cases, the aim is to bring the multiplication of the virus under control. Antiviral medications and regular doctor follow-ups are recommended.
What are the Ways to Prevent Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a preventable disease. Vaccination provides the strongest protection against the disease. It is administered during infancy, and adults can also be vaccinated.
Using protection methods during sexual intercourse reduces the risk of transmission.
Hygiene rules should be observed when getting tattoos and piercings.
Medical procedures should be performed in reliable centers.
Personal items such as toothbrushes and razors should never be shared.
Expectant mothers should have a Hepatitis B test during the pregnancy process. If necessary, protective measures should be applied to the baby after birth.
