What are the main causes of hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B infection is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV)….Causes
- Sexual contact. You may get hepatitis B if you have unprotected sex with someone who is infected.
- Sharing of needles. HBV easily spreads through needles and syringes contaminated with infected blood.
- Accidental needle sticks.
- Mother to child.
Where does hepatitis B come from?
Hepatitis B is a liver infection causedby the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This infection is spread much like HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. It is found in the blood, semen, and vaginal secretions of an infected person.
How is the hepatitis B virus transmitted from person to person?
Key facts. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. The virus is transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person. An estimated 257 million people are living with hepatitis B virus infection (defined as hepatitis B surface antigen positive).
Which is the most serious form of Hep B?
Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is a serious form of hepatitis caused by a virus. It affects people of all ages around the world. The hepatitis B virus attacks the liver. The virus can lead to serious illness, liver damage and, in some cases, death.
What happens to the body when you have Hep B?
Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that causes inflammation (swelling and reddening) that can lead to liver damage. Hepatitis B, also called HBV and Hep B, can cause cirrhosis (hardening or scarring), liver cancer and even death. What are the types of hepatitis B? There are two types of hepatitis B infection: acute and chronic. Acute
How can I increase my risk of hepatitis B?
Your risk of hepatitis B infection increases if you: 1 Have unprotected sex with multiple sex partners or with someone who’s infected with HBV. 2 Share needles during IV drug use. 3 Are a man who has sex with other men. 4 Live with someone who has a chronic HBV infection. 5 Are an infant born to an infected mother. 6 (more items)
What happens if hepatitis B is untreated?
Acute hepatitis B, if left untreated, can develop into chronic (long-term) hepatitis B, which is more difficult to manage and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and even death. If you are diagnosed with acute hepatitis B, it can be treated with proper rest, fluids and liver monitoring by a qualified physician or specialist.
Is hepatitis B a highly contagious disease?
Hepatitis B is highly contagious. It spreads through contact with infected blood and certain other bodily fluids. Although the virus can be found in saliva, it’s not spread through sharing utensils or kissing.
Does hepatitis B go away?
Acute hepatitis B symptoms usually last a few weeks — but they can last as long as 6 months. If the acute hepatitis B infection does not go away after 6 months, it’s considered a chronic hepatitis B infection. Most people who have chronic hepatitis B don’t have symptoms at first.
What are symptoms and risk factors of hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B Overview. Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Symptoms. Signs and symptoms of hepatitis B range from mild to severe. Causes. Hepatitis B infection is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Risk factors. Complications. Prevention.