What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is an infectious disease that affects the liver. The virus is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen, from an infected person. Once infected, individuals can experience chronic or acute stages of the disease, each requiring specific diagnosis and treatment approaches.
Common Causes of Hepatitis B
- Unprotected Sexual Contact: Engaging in unprotected sex with an infected person.
- Sharing Needles: Using contaminated needles during drug use, tattoos, or piercings.
- Mother-to-Child Transmission: Infection during childbirth.
- Blood Transfusions: Receiving contaminated blood products.
- Household Contact: Close contact with an infected person through shared personal items like razors or toothbrushes.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Immediate medical attention is crucial if you experience symptoms such as:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Ignoring these symptoms can lea