Overview
Hepatitis B is inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the liver due to the hepatitis B virus (HBV).
Other types of hepatitis include:
* Hepatitis A
* Hepatitis C
* Hepatitis D
See also:
* Autoimmune hepatitis
* Chronic persistent hepatitis
* Drug-induced hepatitis
Symptoms
Many people who have chronic hepatitis B have few or no symptoms. They may not even look sick. As a result, they may not know they are infected. However, they can still spread the virus to other people.
Symptoms may not appear for up to 6 months after the time of infection. Early symptoms may include:
* Appetite loss
* Fatigue
* Low-grade fever
* Muscle and joint aches
* Nausea and vomiting
* Yellow skin and dark urine due to jaundice
People with chronic hepatitis may have no symptoms, even though gradual liver damage may be occurring. They may have some or all of the symptoms of acute hepatitis.
Treatment
Acute hepatitis needs no treatment other than careful monitoring of liver function with tests. You should get plenty of bed rest, drink plenty of fluids, and eat healthy foods.
In the rare case that you develop liver failure, you will need a liver transplant. A liver transplant is the only cure in some cases of liver failure.
Some patients with chronic hepatitis may be treated with antiviral medications and a medication called peginterferon. Hepatitis B cannot be cured, but these medications may help lessen the infection. Liver transplantation is used to treat end-stage chronic hepatitis B liver disease.
Patients with chronic hepatitis should avoid alcohol and should always check with their doctor or nurse before taking any over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements. This even includes medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
See: Cirrhosis for information about treating more severe liver damage caused by hepatitis B.
Causes
The hepatitis B virus spreads through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and...
