What is Chronic Hepatitis B Infection?
Chronic hepatitis B infection is a serious health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), can cause inflammation in the liver, causing progressive liver damage over time. Experts say this infection can last a lifetime and can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer indicates an increased risk.
Transmission Routes of Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B virus can be transmitted through a variety of routes. Studying these routes in detail is critical to preventing the spread of infection. Transmission routes It is as follows:
- Contact of Blood: The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with the blood of an infected person.
- Unprotected Sexual Intercourse: Because it is a sexually transmitted virus, unprotected sexual intercourse carries a high risk.
- Shared Injection Needles: Sharing needles used by infected individuals can spread the virus.
- Transmission from Mother to Baby: During pregnancy, there is a risk of transmission from an infected mother to her baby.
Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis B
Chronic hepatitis B infection often has no symptoms. However, some individuals may experience the following symptoms:
- Tiredness: A constant feeling of tiredness may be one of the early signs of infection.
- Loss of appetite: Changes in eating habits are common in infected individuals.
- Stomach ache: Pain felt especially in the liver area is a symptom that should be paid attention to.
- Yellowing of the Skin: Jaundice may occur as a result of liver involvement.
Chronic Hepatitis B Diagnosis and Testing Methods
Chronic hepatitis B is usually diagnosed through blood tests. Hepatitis B positivity Individuals who have had it for more than 6 months are diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B. Some of the tests used in the diagnosis process are:
- HBsAg Test: Detects the presence of the hepatitis B virus.
- Anti-HBs Test: It indicates the presence of antibodies against the virus.
- HBV DNA Test: It is an important test that measures the viral load.
Chronic Hepatitis B Treatment Methods
Treatment for chronic hepatitis B aims to control the virus and prevent liver damage. Treatment options include:
- Antiviral Drugs: It can reduce liver damage by preventing the virus from multiplying.
- Immune Modulators: It helps in the fight against the virus by strengthening the immune system.
- Liver Biopsy: It is performed if necessary to evaluate the course of the disease.
Regular Control and Follow-up
Chronic hepatitis B patients should regularly under physician supervision These check-ups play a critical role in monitoring the course of the disease and assessing response to treatment. Physician recommendations In line with this, patients should have blood tests done at regular intervals and consult a doctor immediately in case of any symptoms.
As a result
Chronic hepatitis B infection is a health problem that requires attention. Early diagnosis and it is possible to control the course of the disease with appropriate treatment methods. It is of great importance for each individual to be informed on this subject and not to neglect their health checks.
