Hepatitis B

Common Condition

Viral infection affecting the liver that can become chronic and lead to serious liver disease including cirrhosis and cancer.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain
Dark urine
Fever
Joint pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Weakness and fatigue
Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
May have no symptoms
Chronic infection often asymptomatic

Causes

1
Hepatitis B virus
2
Blood contact with infected person
3
Unprotected sex
4
Sharing needles
5
Mother to baby transmission
6
Needle stick injuries
7
Sharing razors or toothbrushes
8
Tattoos with unsterile equipment
9
Healthcare exposure
10
Not through casual contact

Treatments

Acute: supportive care and monitoring
Chronic: antiviral medications
Entecavir
Tenofovir
Pegylated interferon
Regular liver monitoring
Avoiding alcohol
Hepatocellular carcinoma screening
Liver transplant if end-stage
Vaccination for close contacts
When to See a Doctor

Get tested if you have risk factors. See a doctor for symptoms like jaundice, persistent fatigue, abdominal pain, or if you know you've been exposed to hepatitis B.

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About Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B: Protecting Your Liver

Hepatitis B can become chronic and lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Vaccination is the best protection. If infected, antiviral medications can control the virus and prevent liver damage.

"Ang bakuna ay proteksyon—iwasan ang hepatitis B."