Causes and Symptoms

When an individual initially contracts Hepatitis B, their infection is labeled as "acute"; most people that are infected usually get rid of the virus and are cured of the infection.  But, some people aren't able to do that and as a result, their infection is labeled "chronic", and life-long.  In the United States an estimated 800,000 to 1.4 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis B. (Carthage.edu). What results from acute Hepatitis B is determined by the body's immune response; if the body develops a strong immune defense against the infection, then it's most likely that the virus will clear out and the individual will recover. If the body has a weaker immune defense, the damage to the lever will be less but the risk of developing chronic Hepatitis B will be much higher.

Who has a higher risk of contracting Hepatitis B?
-individuals who were born to an infected mother
-individuals who inject drugs
-individuals on hemodialysis (treatment for kidney failure)
-men who engage in sexual behavior with men
-individuals who are from and/or have lived in particular parts of the world where Hepatitis B is apparent
-individuals who work in an environment that exposes them to blood or body fluids (ex: hospitals).


How is HBV transmitted?
Hepatitis B is transmitted by exposing oneself to blood or body secretions (semen, vaginal discharge, breast milk, saliva, etc) that is infected with the virus.  In the United States,  HBV is transmitted most commonly through sexual contact. Other transmissions include through the use of sharing needles (for injecting drugs, tattoos, etc) and sharing personal hygienic items with another individual that is infected with the virus.  


Symptoms of acute Hepatitis B (illness that occurs one to four months after being infected) may include:
-fever
-fatigue
-minimal or full loss of appetite
-nausea
-skin and eyes yellowing (jaundice)


Symptoms of chronic Hepatitis B may include:
-same as acute
-weight loss
-enlargement of the breasts in men
-development of rashes on the palms
-spider vein-like blood vessels

Hepatitis B is often called the "silent killer" because there are virtually no identifiable symptoms that distinguishes itself from other infections.