Hepatitis B is an infectious viral disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which affects the liver. This virus is transmitted through infected body fluids, and there are various ways of spreading the infection. Understanding these transmission methods is essential to effectively prevent the spread of the disease.
Blood transmission
One of the main ways of transmitting hepatitis B is through infected blood. This includes blood transfusions using non-sterile needles or syringes (especially among intravenous drug users), as well as dental treatment, tattooing, or ear piercing procedures where proper sterility is not maintained.
Unsafe sexual relations
Hepatitis B can also be transmitted through unsafe sexual relations with an infected partner. The virus is present in semen, vaginal secretions, and other body fluids, so any sexual contact with an infected person can cause infection.
Perinatal (vertical) transmission
The hepatitis B virus can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. This most often occurs through the birth canal but can also happen during pregnancy. To reduce this transmission risk, proper care of pregnant women infected with the hepatitis B virus is necessary.
Close physical contact
Although less common, the hepatitis B virus can also be transmitted through everyday family life if there is close physical contact with an infected person, for example, using shared personal items (toothbrushes, razors) that may have traces of infected blood.
Medical procedures
Infection can be transmitted through non-sterilized medical instruments, such as surgical tools or dental equipment, if they are not properly sterilized after use with an infected patient.
Blood products
Although modern blood transfusion procedures include strict blood donor screenings and blood testing, hepatitis B virus was transmitted through blood products in the past.
While hepatitis B is highly contagious and can be transmitted in various ways, it is important to emphasize that it is not transmitted in everyday social situations, such as hugging, handshaking, through food or water, or using shared dishes or toilets. It is also important to focus on preventive measures, such as vaccination, safe sexual relations, and proper use of personal items, to reduce the risk of hepatitis B infection.
The risk factors for hepatitis B are varied and related to circumstances and behaviors that increase the likelihood of contracting the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Understanding these factors is important as they help identify individuals and groups who need more prevention and possibly a different approach to healthcare.
Understanding these risk factors is important for taking effective preventive measures, such as vaccination, safe sexual practices, proper sterilization of medical equipment, and information dissemination in risk groups. Vaccination is one of the most effective means of preventing hepatitis B infection, so it is recommended in many countries as part of the national vaccination program.
The symptoms of hepatitis B vary and can range from mild to severe. Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), is an infectious liver disease. It can be both acute and chronic, and the severity and manifestation of symptoms depend on the nature of the infection, the age of the individuals, and their overall health condition.
Acute hepatitis B
In the acute stage of infection, which can last several weeks to several months, symptoms can be similar to the flu. These include:
Chronic hepatitis B
In the chronic stage of infection, which can last years or even decades, symptoms can be subtle or completely absent. Some people experience:
Advanced chronic infection
In more severe cases, when the disease progresses, more serious signs of liver damage may appear, including:
It is important to note that many individuals, especially children, can be infected with hepatitis B and have no symptoms. However, even without obvious symptoms, infected individuals can be carriers of the virus and spread the infection to others. Therefore, it is crucial to undergo regular health check-ups, especially if a person is in a risk group, and to get vaccinated against hepatitis B to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Hepatitis B is a serious infectious liver disease that can lead to a variety of complications, especially if it becomes chronic. These complications can significantly affect a patient's health, quality of life, and longevity. The severity of complications depends on various factors, including the activity of the virus, the condition of the liver, and the individual patient's response to the infection.
Liver cirrhosis
One of the most common and serious complications of chronic hepatitis B is liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis means long-term liver damage, where healthy liver tissues are replaced by scar tissues (fibrosis). This reduces the liver's ability to perform its functions, such as removing toxins from the blood, regulating metabolism, and synthesizing proteins.
Portal hypertension
Cirrhosis can cause increased pressure in the liver veins, known as portal hypertension. This can lead to serious complications, including bleeding from liver vein varices and ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity).
Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer)
Chronic hepatitis B significantly increases the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, one of the forms of liver cancer. It is one of the leading causes of death among patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Liver failure
In severe cases, chronic hepatitis B can progress to fulminant liver failure, a rapidly progressing condition that causes liver function impairment and potentially death.
Extrahepatic complications
Hepatitis B can also cause problems beyond the liver, including immune system disorders, such as vasculitis, and rheumatoid symptoms.
Infection transmission
Individuals with hepatitis B are a source of infection for others, especially if they do not follow precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
It is important to note that not all individuals with hepatitis B will experience these complications, and the risk can be reduced with proper treatment and regular healthcare. Early diagnosis, regular liver function and condition checks, appropriate treatment, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial factors that can help manage the disease and prevent its progression into more serious complications. It is also important to avoid alcohol and other substances harmful to the liver to reduce additional strain on the liver.
Prevention of hepatitis B is a crucial public health area, as hepatitis B is one of the most infectious and dangerous liver diseases. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) can cause both acute and chronic infections, and chronic infection may progress to liver cirrhosis or even liver cancer.
Preventative measures are multifaceted and include actions at both the individual and public health levels.
Prevention of hepatitis B is a complex task that requires cooperation among healthcare professionals, public health institutions, and the public. Vaccination, education, and proper risk management can significantly reduce the risk of infection and associated complications.
# hepatito B virusas
