Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus can cause acute shortterm or chronic longterm infection.
Transmission
Hepatitis B can be transmitted through contact with blood or other body fluids from an infected person. This can happen through
Unprotected sex with an infected person
Sharing needles or other injection equipment
Sharing personal care items that may be contaminated with blood such as razors or toothbrushes
From an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy childbirth or breastfeeding

Symptoms
Most people with acute hepatitis B do not have any symptoms. However some people may experience the following symptoms
Fatigue
Fever
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Dark urine

Yellowing of the skin and eyes jaundice
Diagnosis
A blood test can be used to diagnose hepatitis B. The test will look for the presence of the hepatitis B virus in the blood.
Treatment
There is no cure for hepatitis B. However there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms and prevent complications.
Prevention
The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to get vaccinated. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective. It is recommended that all babies get the vaccine at birth.
Complications
In some cases hepatitis B can lead to serious complications such as
Chronic liver disease
Cirrhosis
Liver cancer
Conclusion
Hepatitis B is a serious disease that can have longterm consequences. However there are ways to prevent and treat the disease. By getting vaccinated and taking precautions to avoid exposure to the virus you can help to protect yourself from hepatitis B.