What is hepatitis B and how is it transmitted?
Similar to hepatitis A, hepatitis B is a liver infection. That is caused by the B strain of the hepatitis virus (HBV). Hepatitis B can contracted through exposure to infected blood, semen or other bodily fluids. The spread of this virus is most prevalent through pregnant women transmitting it to their babies at birth, as well as through the exposure to infected blood. The latter can occur with high-risk behaviours such as unprotected sex and usage of contaminated needles amongst intravenous drug uses, and in healthcare settings.
Symptoms and treatment of hepatitis B
Symptoms of a hepatitis B infection can หรือถ้าคุณสนใจแทงบอลออนไลน์ UFABET คือเว็บที่มีอัตราต่อรองดีที่สุดในประเทศไทย สมัครเลยตอนนี้ที่ UFABET แทงบอล range from asymptomatic or mild disease to severe illness, where the patient develops liver failure which may eventually lead to death. Common symptoms of an infection include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice, although most people do not experience any symptoms.
Hepatitis B infections are categorised as acute and chronic. Treatment for acute hepatitis B is focused on maintaining comfort, hydration and nutritional balance. Your doctor may also decide to temporarily withhold any medication that might worsen liver damage.
Chronic hepatitis occurs when the liver inflammation persists for more than 6 months. Individuals with chronic hepatitis B have an increased risk of liver cirrhosis (scarring), liver cancer, and ultimately liver failure. To prevent this, your doctor will prescribe oral antiviral medication. The medication aims at slowing the rate of progression to cirrhosis, reducing risk of liver cancer and improving long-term survival rates.
Preventing hepatitis B Infections
The risk of chronic hepatitis is less than 5% for adults, but about 95% for children. The safest and most effective way of preventing hepatitis B infection is through vaccination, which is why it is one of the immunisations nationally recommended in Singapore. Likewise, adults are also encouraged to have themselves vaccinated. The vaccination series comprises three doses, with the second and third dose at one and six months after the first dose.
Healthy liver tips
The best way to keep your liver healthy is to avoid anything that may harm it!
Here are some ways to achieve liver wellness and possibly reverse the effects of liver damage:
1) Diet and Exercise
It is important to observe a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese puts you in danger of getting non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a form of liver disease that is becoming more prevalent given our sedentary lifestyles. Regular exercise can help in reducing fat in the liver.
Food-wise, avoid refined sugars, saturated fat, high-calorie meals and refined carbohydrates. Instead, consume more fibre-rich food such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and cereal.
2) Alcohol in moderation
Excessive alcohol consumption causes multiple health problems, particularly alcohol- induced liver scarring and hardening. Be conscious about having alcoholic beverages in moderation, or better still, avoid alcohol altogether.
3) Be aware of toxins and medications that can damage your liver
Certain substances, such as herbal supplements (including black cohosh and ginseng) and illicit drugs (such as heroin and cocaine) have been known to cause liver injury. Misuse of over-the-counter medication containing acetaminophen can also potentially cause liver damage. It is imperative that we read the contents and instructions carefully before taking any medication to prevent overdose. Persons with existing liver conditions should also consult their doctor before taking medication or supplements.
4) Avoid contaminated needles
Unsafe injection practices are common amongst intravenous drug users, and at some body tattooing and skin piercing parlours. Such high-risk actions can spread diseases such as hepatitis B and C. Therefore, it is important to ensure that sterile needles are used for all procedures that involve any form of skin penetration.
5) Exposure to blood
If you are exposed to another person’s blood, such as in the case of a needle stick injury, please consult your doctor immediately for post-exposure management.