Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects your liver. It's caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can range from a mild illness that lasts a few weeks (acute hepatitis B) to a serious, lifelong condition (chronic hepatitis B). Your liver is a vital organ responsible for many crucial functions, including filtering toxins from your blood, aiding digestion, and producing essential proteins. When infected, the virus can cause inflammation and damage to this important organ. The Hepatitis B virus is primarily spread through contact with infected blood or other body fluids, such as during sexual contact, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, or from an infected mother to her baby at birth. If the infection becomes chronic, it can lead to serious liver problems over time, including ongoing inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer, which can be life-threatening. Many people with Hepatitis B, especially in the early stages, may not experience any noticeable symptoms. This is why lab tests are incredibly important. Your blood tests can detect the presence of the virus, determine if your infection is acute or chronic, assess the health of your liver, and help your doctor decide on the best course of action. Early diagnosis and monitoring are key to managing the condition effectively and preventing severe complications.