Hepatitis B causes inflammation of the liver and can be sexually transmitted. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), while Hepatitis B infection is on the decline due to better prevention measures implemented in the 1990s, nearly 3,000 people were infected with the virus in 2014. Globally, the CDC reports between 850,000 and 2.2 million people are infected with Hepatitis B. Unprotected vaginal, anal, and oral sexual contact can all transmit Hepatitis B and mothers can pass the virus to their children. Infection can also be passed through the sharing of syringes, and less frequently, through the sharing of toothbrushes or razors. Fortunately, there is a vaccine against Hepatitis B and most adults with the infection can be cured with antiviral medication.
Common Symptoms of Hepatitis B
While Hepatitis B does not always present symptoms, common symptoms occur between 60-150 days after exposure. Symptoms last a few weeks and usually clear up within six months. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue, fever or other flu-like symptoms
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting and/or nausea
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored bowel movements
- Joint aches
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
Health Complications
If left untreated, the initial symptoms can persist or reappear. Other symptoms of Hepatitis B that might manifest include abdominal swelling, changes to the testicles, and other abnormal conditions. Many people with chronic Hepatitis B do not exhibit any symptoms until the onset of cirrhosis or other liver conditions, such as cancer. Chronic Hepatitis B is more likely in those infected during childhood, rather than those who are first exposed to the virus as adults. Adults who are infected can often be cured or manage the condition with treatment. It is important to be tested if you feel you may have been exposed to Hepatitis B as, if left untreated, it can result serious health complications, including liver damage and cancer, as well as death.