Chronic hepatitis B can develop into a serious disease resulting in long-term health problems, including liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, and even death. There were 1,752 deaths related to hepatitis B virus reported to CDC in 2020, but this is an underestimate.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily targets the liver, posing significant health risks if left untreated. It can manifest as either an acute, short-term illness or develop into a chronic, long-term condition, potentially leading to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
Causes and Transmission:
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, vaginal fluids, and semen. Common modes of transmission include:
- Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth.
- Exposure to infected blood, especially in healthcare settings or through contaminated needles.
- Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected partner.
- Reuse of contaminated needles and syringes.
- Transmission from an infected child to an uninfected child during early childhood.
Symptoms:
Many individuals with hepatitis B may not experience symptoms during the initial stages of infection. However, those who do may exhibit symptoms such as:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
Severe cases of acute hepatitis B can lead to liver failure, which may prove fatal. Moreover, chronic hepatitis B increases the risk of developing progressive liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).
HBV(Hepatitis B Virus)-HIV Coinfection:
Approximately 1% of individuals with HBV(Hepatitis B Virus) infection are also infected with HIV. Conversely, the global prevalence of HBV infection among HIV-infected persons is around 7.4%. Treatment for HIV, which often includes tenofovir, can also effectively target HBV(Hepatitis B Virus), highlighting the importance of comprehensive care for coinfected individuals.
Diagnosis and Testing:
Diagnosing hepatitis B requires laboratory tests to confirm the presence of the virus. Various blood tests are available to distinguish between acute and chronic infections and to assess the severity of liver disease. Additionally, physical examinations, ultrasounds, and fibroscan tests may be conducted to evaluate liver health and monitor disease progression.
Prevention and Vaccination:
Prevention of hepatitis B primarily relies on vaccination, which offers nearly 100% protection against the virus. Vaccination is typically administered soon after birth, with booster shots provided later. Furthermore, screening of blood donations, routine testing for pregnant women, and targeted testing of high-risk populations are essential strategies for preventing transmission.
Treatment Options:
While there is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis B, chronic infections can be managed with oral medications such as tenofovir or entecavir. These treatments aim to slow disease progression, reduce the risk of complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer, and improve long-term survival rates, but they are not permant solutions and effect the overall health and wellness due to toxicity of medicines. Liver transplantation may be considered for individuals with advanced liver disease, but its availability is a concern, further it is a very expensive treatment, not everyone can afford it. In many cases it has been noted that even after liver transplant the chances of survival are low as body can reject the donor's liver.
In the pursuit of effective hepatitis B treatment, LIVBY emerges as a modern scientific medicine rooted in traditional recipes. It is an Ayurvedic medicine prepared from ancient medicinal herbs, combining the wisdom of traditional practices with contemporary scientific advancements. LIVBY has garnered recognition from the Government of India, receiving a patent for its efficacy in curing liver disorders. It represents a revolution in hepatitis B treatment, offering a non-lethal and non-toxic alternative for individuals battling this challenging condition. With its proven effectiveness and innovative approach, LIVBY stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking to overcome hepatitis B and reclaim their health and well-being.