THE DANGERS OF HEPATITIS B

July 21, 2023 By Dr. Opeyemi Oladujoye In Hepatitis

The liver is the largest internal organ in the body. It is responsible for producing necessary metabolic substances and detoxifying some harmful substances in the body. Hepatitis means liver inflammation Damage or inflammation may affect the liver’s capacity to function. Excessive alcohol use, infections, specific medications, and specific medical conditions can all lead to hepatitis.

The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of Hepatitis B. This serious liver infection typically lasts less than six months for most people. People with long-term hepatitis B infection are more likely to develop cirrhosis, a condition that permanently scars the liver and can lead to liver cancer and liver failure. With the aid of a vaccine, contracting HBV and developing an infection can be avoided. Causes Hepatitis B infection is caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). The virus is very contagious and can spread from one person to another through blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. It is not transmitted through sneezing or coughing. The following are typical channels by which HBV is transmitted:
  • Unprotected sexual Intercourse
  • Sharing of Syringes
  • Needle Sticks injuries
  • Mother to Child transmission
Duration/Types of Hepatitis infection a. Acute An acute infection can occur when a person contracts Hepatitis B virus for the first time. Many people can get it out of their bodies and feel better. Roughly 4 out of 5 sick adults fit this description. b. Chronic Chronic denotes continual therefore you have chronic hepatitis B if you are unable to get rid of the virus within six months or longer. Treatment can delay the disease’s progression to liver cirrhosis and liver failure, lower the risk of developing cancer, and improve survival rates. Symptoms of Hepatitis Mild or severe symptoms may appear two weeks to four months after the infection develops. Usually, young children do not show any symptoms. Hepatitis B signs and symptoms include:
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Weakness and fatigue
How to Test for Hepatitis B Infection i. Blood tests: Examinations of the blood plasma or serum reveal the immune system’s response to the virus. You can find out if you have been exposed to HBV and developed some immunity through blood tests. At our center, we screen uninfected people for the presence of antibodies to the HBV virus, this denotes immunity. We also test the HBV virus components to detect its presence. For people who are HBV-positive and are aware of their status, we are also able to check the level of the virus in their blood. ii. Abdominal ultrasound scans: At our facility, we use this to visualize your liver’s size, shape, and blood flow to detect any abnormalities or damage. iii. Liver biopsy: This is done through a very small incision in suspected cases, a small sample of the liver’s tissue is taken and tested at our laboratory to assess the severity of any damage done. Treatment Once contracted, Hepatitis B infection cannot be cured. However, Hepatitis B Virus Infection is not a death sentence as it can be well-managed by medical doctors.

How to Prevent Hepatitis B Infection


1. Get Tested: It is very important to know your status first!
2. Get vaccinated: Depending on which vaccine is administered, the hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as three doses of injections spaced out over six months or as two injections separated by a month. Hepatitis B cannot be contracted through the vaccine.
3. Practice safe sex: Always have protected sex if possible. Any sexual partner’s HBV status should be known. If you are not sure of your partner’s health, use a fresh latex or polyurethane condom each time you have sex. Only engage in unprotected sex if you are certain your partner is free of any sexually transmitted diseases, such as HBV. Condoms can lower your risk of getting HBV, but they don’t eliminate it.
4. Avoid substance abuse: Don’t use illicit substances. Get help to stop using illegal drugs if you do. Use a new or sterile needle every time you inject illegal substances if you can’t stop.
5. Do not share needles: When getting a tattoo or piercing, look for a reputable place. Find out how the equipment is cleaned by asking. Ensure that the staff uses new or sterile needles. Look for another store if you can’t get any answers.

Do you need a credible medical facility in Lagos to handle your testing, vaccination or treatment? You can visit us at Finnih Medical Centre. You can also contact us via 08134020021 or by sending a mail to wecare@finnihmedicalcentre.com.