Disclaimer:
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalised diagnosis, treatment, or advice regarding Hepatitis B or other liver conditions.
Q1: What is Hepatitis B?
A: Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can cause both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) liver infection. Chronic infection may lead to serious liver problems such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Q2: How do people get Hepatitis B?
A: Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood or body fluids. Common modes of transmission include:
- Sexual contact without protection
- Sharing needles or syringes
- From mother to baby during childbirth
- Blood transfusions or medical procedures with unsterile equipment (rare in modern healthcare)
It cannot be transmitted by casual contact like hugging, kissing, sharing food, or using the same toilet.
Q3: Who is most at risk?
People at higher risk include:
- Infants born to infected mothers
- People with multiple sexual partners
- Healthcare workers exposed to blood
- People who inject drugs
- Family members living with someone who has chronic Hepatitis B
Q4: What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?
Many people, especially children, do not have symptoms. When present, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain, especially near the liver
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
Chronic Hepatitis B may have no symptoms for years, making regular screening important for at-risk individuals.
Q5: How is Hepatitis B diagnosed?
- Blood tests detect the virus or antibodies
- Tests can determine whether the infection is acute or chronic
- Screening is especially important for pregnant women, healthcare workers, and high-risk groups
Q6: How is Hepatitis B treated?
- Acute Hepatitis B often resolves on its own with supportive care (rest, hydration, avoiding alcohol and liver-damaging medications)
- Chronic Hepatitis B may require long-term antiviral medications to reduce liver damage and prevent complications
- Regular monitoring of liver function and viral load is important
Q7: Can Hepatitis B be prevented?
Yes. Prevention methods include:
- Vaccination — a safe and effective vaccine provides long-term protection
- Practicing safe sex (using condoms)
- Avoiding sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes that may have blood
- Screening blood products and ensuring sterile medical procedures
Q8: What happens if Hepatitis B is not treated?
Untreated chronic Hepatitis B can lead to:
- Liver inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis)
- Liver failure
- Liver cancer
- Increased risk of transmitting the virus to others
Q9: Can pregnant women with Hepatitis B infect their baby?
Yes. The virus can be transmitted during childbirth. Babies born to infected mothers should receive:
- Hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth
- Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) if recommended by the doctor
These measures greatly reduce the risk of infection in newborns.
Q10: Should family members be tested?
Yes. Household members and sexual partners of someone with Hepatitis B should get screened and vaccinated if they are not already immune. Early detection helps prevent complications and further spread of the virus.
