Overview
Hepatitis B is a severe liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV attacks the liver, causing inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), liver cancer or long-term damage. It can lead to both acute and chronic liver disease. While some people recover completely, others develop chronic hepatitis B, a long-term condition that needs persistent care.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
Many people with hepatitis B show no symptoms, especially during the early stages. If you experience these symptoms, consult a hepatitis B doctor in Kolkata for quick medical intervention. When symptoms occur, they may include:
Fatigue and Nausea
Weakness
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Upper right abdominal pain
Dark urine and pale or clay-colored stools
Joint pain and fever
Causes and Risk Factors
Hepatitis B transmission happens through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. Risk factors include:
Unprotected intimate contact
Sharing needles, syringes, or razors
Mother-to-child during birth
Direct blood contact
Hemodialysis and Intravenous drug use
Unsterilized medical equipment
Receiving unscreened blood transfusions
Healthcare workers exposed to blood
Evaluation
Your doctor will recommend a hepatitis B test to:
Check infection status
Monitor liver function
Evaluate viral load
Guide treatment decisions
Book An Appointment
Prevention
The hepatitis B vaccine is the most effective prevention method. Other steps include:
Practicing safe sex
Avoiding needle sharing
Using sterile medical equipment
Regular hepatitis B test if at risk
Maintain hygiene (washing hands after coming from contaminated surfaces)
Use gloves to clean blood spills or bodily fluids
Follow-up with your doctor/hospital for the hepatitis B injection schedule, which typically includes:
Three doses over 6 months
Booster shots as recommended
Newborn vaccination (first dose within 24 hours of birth)
Management
For expert medical care, consult a hepatitis B treatment doctor in Kolkata and explore the latest treatment options. While there is no hepatitis B cure, hepatitis B new treatment options can manage the condition effectively. Options include:
Antiviral medications to suppress the virus
Regular monitoring of liver function
Lifestyle changes like avoiding alcohol
Liver health management
Healthy diet
In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary
FAQs
Know Your Answers
Can hepatitis B be cured completely?
Chronic hepatitis B has no cure but can be managed with treatment and regular monitoring.
Who should get the hepatitis B vaccine?
Newborns, healthcare workers, and those at risk should get vaccinated.
Is hepatitis B contagious through food sharing?
No. Hepatitis B doesn’t spread through sharing meals, hugging, or casual contact. Transmission requires direct blood or body fluid exposure.
Does hepatitis B affect pregnancy?
Pregnant women with hepatitis B can have healthy babies. The advanced medical management options and newborn vaccination help prevent transmission.
Can I get hepatitis B twice?
No. Once you recover from hepatitis B, your body develops immunity. However, chronic cases require ongoing management. Consult with a doctor immediately to diagnose your condition before it worsens.