Hepatitis B: Complications, Treatment, and Prevention

Chronic or not, Hepatitis B yields different medical complications to millions of people worldwide, and some of its consequences can be fatal.

In dealing with Hepatitis B, one must know its symptoms do not show up in the initial phases. You can be absolutely asymptomatic for years with no idea of the infection in your body. This will not only increase your health risk but also that of others who are closely associated with you. Therefore, an early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing the spread of Hepatitis B. The best practice is to get tested after any unusual or risky behavior, such as unprotected sex with a stranger, getting a tattoo, or even sharing a syringe/needle.

Early knowledge of your health status can prevent several unmanageable health conditions in the future.

Here is a list of severe health conditions associated with advanced or chronic Hepatitis B.

Cancer of the Liver

One of the most dangerous medical problems associated with advanced Hepatitis B is liver cancer. Individuals with the disease have greater chances of getting this kind of cancer, in the chronic stage.

Some of its major reactions are:

• Rapid weight loss
• Extreme weakness
• Pain on the right side of the body
• Lack of appetite
• Abdominal swelling
• Jaundice
• Unexplained bruising

Two of the major treatment for liver cancer are chemotherapy and thermal ablation. Other than that, surgery is also required to cut out the infected part of the liver and get rid of the cells that trigger the medical condition.

Liver Failure

Hepatitis B can impair the proper functioning of the liver in its advanced stages. A completely dysfunctional liver may demand a liver transplant. If ignored, the condition can also be fatal.

Some of its major reactions are:

• Severe stomach pain
• Jaundice
• Nausea
• Severe sickness
• Unexplained bruising
• Stomach swelling
• Personality problems

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is also a kind of inflammation that impairs the liver and flaws its functions. It also requires a liver transplant to ensure that there is no intensive damage within the liver.

Some of its major reactions are:

• Extreme weakness
• Sickness
• Loss of weight
• Scarring
• Skin itchiness
• Stomach pain
• Ankle swelling

Treatment

Acute Hepatitis B

For individuals having this type of hepatitis, treatment is not required. However, you will be advised by the medical professional to follow good eating habits and take lots of rest. In most cases, the complications associated with acute Hepatitis B are short-lasting and manageable.

Chronic Hepatitis B

Chronic Hepatitis B can be serious. Consume antiviral drugs to control its complications. Doctors may also recommend injections and liver transplants depending on the severity of the issue. The chronic stage of hepatitis B may be a precursor to many severe liver diseases, such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.

Prevention

Note that a vaccine is available to prevent Hepatitis B. Once you have are vaccinated, you are safe from its aggravating effects. However, you still need to practice certain precautionary measures to stay healthy.