Hepatitis B Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets and damages the liver. It’s caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is one of the most common types of viral hepatitis worldwide. The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body, producing proteins, and aiding in digestion. When this organ becomes infected, its ability to perform these functions can be compromised, leading to serious health issues. Hepatitis B can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), and the severity of the infection can vary from mild to life-threatening.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis B Infection?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe. Many people, especially in the early stages of infection, may not experience any symptoms at all. This is why hepatitis B can sometimes go unnoticed for a long time, making early detection difficult. For those who do show symptoms, they can be quite varied and may include the following:
Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of hepatitis B is extreme fatigue. This can be more than just feeling a little tired; it can be a persistent, overwhelming sense of exhaustion. People with hepatitis B may feel unusually weak, lack the energy to perform daily tasks, or find it difficult to get out of bed. This happens because the liver is struggling to do its job properly, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can make you feel tired all the time.
Jaundice (Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes)
Jaundice is a hallmark symptom of liver disease, and it occurs when the liver is no longer able to process bilirubin properly. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. When the liver is damaged, bilirubin builds up in the blood, causing a yellowish tint to the skin, the whites of the eyes (sclera), and sometimes even in the urine. Jaundice is often one of the most noticeable and alarming symptoms of hepatitis B, signalling that the liver is under stress.
Abdominal Pain (Particularly in the Upper Right Side)
People with hepatitis B may experience abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side of the abdomen. This is where the liver is located, and when it becomes inflamed, it can cause discomfort, pain, or a sensation of fullness. The pain can range from mild to severe, and it may feel like a dull ache or a sharp stabbing pain, especially after eating. In severe cases, the liver can become enlarged (a condition called hepatomegaly), which can further contribute to the pain or discomfort.
Loss of Appetite
Another common symptom of hepatitis B is a loss of appetite. This can make it difficult for people to eat regular meals and maintain proper nutrition. The loss of appetite may be accompanied by nausea, making food even less appealing. This symptom is often a sign that the body is struggling with the viral infection and the liver is unable to process food properly, leading to digestive disturbances.
Dark Urine
Dark urine is another classic sign of liver problems and can be a symptom of hepatitis B. The dark color is often due to the presence of bilirubin, which is usually processed by the liver and excreted in the stool. When the liver is not functioning properly, bilirubin ends up in the urine, turning it a dark brown or tea-colored hue. If you notice this change in urine color, it's important to seek medical attention, as it could indicate liver damage.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of many types of liver infections, including hepatitis B. They occur because the liver is having difficulty processing toxins, which leads to a buildup of waste products in the body. As a result, the digestive system becomes upset, leading to feelings of nausea and, in some cases, vomiting. This can also be accompanied by loss of appetite, making it hard for individuals to eat or drink enough.
Joint Pain
Hepatitis B can also cause joint pain, which may be mistaken for the symptoms of other conditions, such as arthritis. Joint pain is often a result of inflammation, which can be triggered by the body's immune response to the hepatitis B virus. The pain may be mild or more intense and can affect different joints, particularly those in the hands, wrists, knees, or elbows. Some people may even experience stiffness or swelling in the joints along with the pain.
What Causes Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), a highly contagious virus that attacks liver cells (hepatocytes). Once the virus enters the body, it travels to the liver and begins to multiply, leading to inflammation and potentially long-term damage if not treated.HBV is part of a group of viruses known as bloodborne pathogens, meaning it spreads through direct contact with infected blood or certain body fluids. These fluids include semen, vaginal fluids, and saliva (in specific cases). The virus is not spread through casual contact, like hugging, coughing, sneezing, or sharing food.Below are the main modes of transmission of hepatitis B:
Unprotected Sexual Contact
One of the most common ways hepatitis B spreads is through unprotected sex with an infected person. The virus can be present in semen, vaginal secretions, and blood. People who have multiple sexual partners, sex with an HBV-positive partner, or unprotected sex (without condoms) are at higher risk.
Men who have sex with men are also at increased risk.
The risk increases further if there are cuts, sores, or bleeding during intercourse.
Sharing Needles or Drug Equipment
People who inject drugs are at very high risk of getting hepatitis B if they share:
Even trace amounts of blood left on shared equipment can carry the virus. HBV is extremely infectious, it can survive outside the body for up to 7 days and still be capable of causing infection.
Mother-to-Baby Transmission (Vertical Transmission)
An infected mother can pass hepatitis B to her baby during childbirth. This is especially common in areas where hepatitis B is widespread. Without treatment, about 90% of newborns exposed to HBV at birth will develop chronic hepatitis B. Fortunately, this type of transmission can be effectively prevented by:
Blood Transfusions and Organ Transplants
While this was once a common route of infection, modern screening has made transmission through blood transfusions and organ transplants very rare today.Before the 1990s, donated blood and organs were not tested as thoroughly. Today, all blood and organ donors are screened for hepatitis B and other infectious diseases.
Sharing Personal Items
HBV can also spread through sharing items that may come into contact with infected blood, such as:
While these items may not seem dangerous, even microscopic traces of blood can carry the virus. This is why sharing personal hygiene tools with someone who has hepatitis B is not recommended.
Occupational Exposure (Healthcare Settings)
Doctors, nurses, lab workers, and others who work in healthcare may be at risk if they come into contact with infected blood or are accidentally pricked by contaminated needles. Because of this risk, healthcare workers are strongly encouraged and often required to receive the hepatitis B vaccine as part of their occupational safety.
How is Hepatitis B Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hepatitis B involves a series of tests that help doctors determine if you are infected with the virus, how much damage has been done to your liver, and whether the infection is acute or chronic. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for starting the right treatment plan, preventing liver damage, and managing the infection effectively.Here are the key diagnostic methods for hepatitis B:
Blood Tests
Blood tests are the primary method used to diagnose hepatitis B. These tests look for specific markers in the blood that indicate the presence of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). There are several important blood tests, including:
HBV Surface Antigen (HBsAg): This test detects the presence of the hepatitis B virus in the blood. If the result is positive, it means you are infected with HBV. A positive result for HBsAg indicates an active infection, either acute or chronic.
Acute infection: In the early stages of infection, HBsAg may be present for a few weeks to several months.
Chronic infection: If HBsAg persists for more than six months, it indicates that the infection is chronic.
HBV Surface Antibody (anti-HBs): This test looks for the antibodies produced by your immune system in response to the virus. If the test is positive, it suggests that you have recovered from hepatitis B or that you have been successfully vaccinated against the virus.
HBV Core Antibody (anti-HBc): This test detects antibodies to the core of the hepatitis B virus. A positive result can indicate either a past infection (if anti-HBc is present without HBsAg) or an ongoing infection (if both anti-HBc and HBsAg are present). It is used to confirm past exposure or assess the stage of infection.
HBV DNA Test (Polymerase Chain Reaction, PCR): This test measures the amount of viral DNA in your blood, known as the viral load. The higher the viral load, the greater the likelihood of liver damage. This test helps doctors understand how active the infection is and guide treatment decisions.
Liver Function Tests
Once hepatitis B is diagnosed, doctors may perform liver function tests (LFTs) to measure how well your liver is working. These tests measure the levels of certain enzymes and proteins in the blood that can indicate liver damage or inflammation. Common liver function tests include:
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): High levels of ALT suggest liver inflammation or damage, often caused by hepatitis B.
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Like ALT, AST levels rise when liver cells are damaged. Elevated AST levels, when combined with ALT, can give an indication of the extent of liver injury.
Bilirubin: The liver processes bilirubin, which is produced when red blood cells break down. High levels of bilirubin in the blood can indicate liver dysfunction and lead to jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Albumin: Low levels of albumin in the blood can indicate chronic liver disease or liver failure. The liver makes albumin, and low levels suggest that the liver is not functioning properly.
Prothrombin Time (PT): This test measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. The liver produces clotting factors, and prolonged PT levels can suggest liver damage.
Ultrasound
A liver ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique used to examine the liver’s structure and assess for damage. It can detect:
Liver enlargement (hepatomegaly)
Fatty liver (a condition where fat builds up in the liver cells)
Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver due to long-term liver damage)
Liver tumors or lesions (which could indicate liver cancer)
Ultrasound can also help identify ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen) and signs of liver failure, both of which are common in advanced cases of hepatitis B.
An ultrasound is often used for routine monitoring of chronic hepatitis B patients, especially those at risk for cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Liver Biopsy
In some cases, a liver biopsy may be recommended, especially if other tests suggest significant liver damage or if the doctor is uncertain about the extent of liver injury. During this procedure, a small sample of liver tissue is removed using a needle (usually under local anesthesia) and examined under a microscope. This allows doctors to assess the level of:
Inflammation: How much the liver is inflamed due to the infection.
Fibrosis: The amount of scar tissue in the liver, which is a sign of liver damage.
Cirrhosis: If there is significant scarring of the liver, which can lead to liver failure and increase the risk of liver cancer.
The biopsy helps doctors determine the severity of the disease and decide whether antiviral treatment is necessary. However, liver biopsies are less commonly performed today because there are less invasive tests (such as elastography or blood tests) that can also evaluate liver damage.
Other Diagnostic Methods
In certain situations, doctors may use additional tests to gain more information about the extent of the infection:
Elastography (FibroScan): This non-invasive test measures liver stiffness, which is an indicator of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. It works by sending an ultrasound wave through the liver to measure how stiff it is. The stiffer the liver, the more likely there is significant scarring or cirrhosis.
Hepatitis B Genotype Testing: This test identifies specific strains or mutations of the virus. It can help doctors understand how the virus might behave, particularly in people who may be resistant to antiviral treatments.
Living with Someone Who Has Hepatitis B
Although hepatitis B is not transmitted through casual contact (like hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food), close household contact with someone who has chronic hepatitis B can increase the risk of transmission, especially if there is sharing of personal items (e.g., toothbrushes, razors) or if an infected person has open cuts or sores.
Health Conditions That Weaken the Immune System
People with weakened immune systems (such as those living with HIV or undergoing immunosuppressive treatments) are at higher risk of contracting hepatitis B because their bodies are less able to fight off infections. In these individuals, the virus can also progress more rapidly and cause more severe liver damage.
What are Hepatitis B Treatments?
The treatment approach for hepatitis B largely depends on whether the infection is acute or chronic. Acute hepatitis B usually resolves on its own within a few months, while chronic hepatitis B requires long-term management to prevent liver damage and complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer. Hepatitis B treatment options are available for both acute and chronic include the following:
Prophylactic Treatment (Preventive Treatment)
Prophylactic treatment is designed to prevent hepatitis B infection before exposure to the virus. The hepatitis B vaccine is the most common form of preventive treatment. This vaccine is extremely effective in protecting against the hepatitis B virus (HBV), making it a key part of global health efforts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Acute Hepatitis B Treatment
For acute hepatitis B, treatment usually focuses on supportive care, as the body can often fight off the virus on its own. Acute hepatitis B refers to a short-term infection, and most people recover without the need for specific antiviral treatment.
Rest and Hydration: Patients are generally advised to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. This helps the body heal and recover from the infection.
Medications to Ease Symptoms: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen may be recommended to manage symptoms like fever, pain, and joint discomfort. However, caution should be taken with medications, as some can put additional stress on the liver.
Monitoring: Doctors will monitor liver function closely during the acute phase of hepatitis B to make sure the infection does not progress to chronic hepatitis. Blood tests will be done to track viral levels, liver function, and signs of liver damage.
Most people with acute hepatitis B will recover fully within 6 months. For those who do not recover, the infection may become chronic, leading to a more serious, long-term condition that requires antiviral treatment.
Chronic Hepatitis B Treatment
For chronic hepatitis B, which is defined as an infection that lasts more than 6 months, treatment is needed to reduce the viral load, prevent liver damage, and minimise the risk of complications like cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Chronic hepatitis B is a lifelong infection, and treatment often involves the use of antiviral medications.
When Does Hepatitis B Require a Liver Transplant?
A liver transplant becomes necessary for individuals with hepatitis B when the liver suffers severe, irreversible damage that significantly impairs its ability to function. Hepatitis B, if left untreated or poorly managed, can progress to life-threatening complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. When these complications occur, a liver transplant may be the only viable treatment option to save the patient’s life and restore liver function. Let’s explore the specific conditions under which a liver transplant may be needed for hepatitis B patients:
Severe Liver Damage Due to Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver becomes scarred and damaged due to long-term injury or inflammation. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to cirrhosis because the ongoing viral infection causes inflammation in the liver, leading to fibrosis (scarring). Over time, this scarring disrupts the liver’s ability to function normally, leading to severe consequences, including:
Decreased liver function: The liver plays a vital role in detoxifying the body, producing essential proteins (like albumin and clotting factors), and storing glucose. As cirrhosis progresses, the liver’s ability to perform these functions is reduced.
Portal hypertension: The scarring of the liver obstructs blood flow, causing increased pressure in the veins that supply the liver. This can lead to serious complications, such as varices (enlarged veins that can rupture and cause severe bleeding) and ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen).
Hepatic encephalopathy: In severe cirrhosis, the liver can no longer detoxify harmful substances like ammonia, which can build up in the bloodstream and affect the brain, leading to confusion, altered mental state, and, in extreme cases, coma.
A liver transplant is considered when cirrhosis causes irreversible damage to the liver and when the liver can no longer maintain normal function, threatening the patient’s life. Signs that cirrhosis has become severe include:
Severe jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Severe swelling (edema or ascites)
Confusion and mental disturbances
Bleeding from varices
Poor blood clotting, resulting in frequent bruising or internal bleeding
Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma - HCC)
Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a common and serious complication of chronic hepatitis B. The virus increases the risk of liver cancer by causing continuous liver cell damage, which can result in genetic mutations and the development of cancerous cells. Chronic hepatitis B is responsible for a significant proportion of liver cancer cases worldwide. Individuals with chronic hepatitis B and cirrhosis are at especially high risk of developing HCC .Liver cancer often does not show early symptoms, making it difficult to detect in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may be in an advanced stage. Common symptoms of liver cancer include:
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)
A liver transplant is often recommended for individuals who develop liver cancer as a result of hepatitis B, particularly if the tumour is confined to the liver and the liver function is still sufficient to tolerate a transplant. For transplant eligibility, cancerous tumours typically need to meet specific size criteria (e.g., less than 5 cm or no more than 3 tumours smaller than 3 cm in diameter) to increase the chances of successful outcomes.
End-Stage Liver Failure
End-stage liver failure occurs when the liver has lost most of its ability to function due to advanced cirrhosis, liver cancer, or chronic viral hepatitis B infection. This is often the final stage in chronic liver disease when the liver can no longer perform critical functions such as detoxifying harmful substances, producing proteins, and managing blood circulation. Signs of end-stage liver failure include:
Severe jaundice
Excessive fluid retention (oedema, ascites)
Increased ammonia levels in the blood, leading to encephalopathy (confusion, lethargy, and even coma)
Severe bleeding or bruising
Rapid deterioration of physical health
At this point, a liver transplant becomes essential, as it is the only way to restore normal liver function. The patient would be placed on a liver transplant list, and the success of the procedure depends on factors such as the patient's overall health, liver condition, and the availability of a matching donor organ.
When Chronic Hepatitis B Becomes Treatment-Resistant
Chronic hepatitis B can sometimes be resistant to antiviral medications, particularly if the virus develops resistance to drugs like tenofovir or entecavir. When antiviral treatment fails to control the virus, liver damage can progress rapidly, leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer.In cases of severe resistance, a liver transplant might be necessary, but post-transplant antiviral treatment is essential to prevent the hepatitis B virus from reinfecting the new liver. Long-term antiviral therapy with medications like tenofovir is often required after transplantation to prevent the recurrence of hepatitis B.
What are the Possible Complications of Hepatitis B Infection?
If hepatitis B is not properly treated or managed, it can cause significant damage to the liver and lead to serious complications. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) primarily affects the liver, and over time, the infection can result in conditions that severely impair liver function and even threaten a person’s life. Let’s explore the most common and dangerous complications associated with chronic hepatitis B infection.
Cirrhosis is a condition where the liver becomes severely scared due to long-term inflammation. Chronic hepatitis B is one of the leading causes of cirrhosis worldwide. The infection causes repeated inflammation of the liver cells, which eventually leads to the formation of fibrous tissue (scarring). As this scar tissue builds up, it disrupts the normal structure of the liver and impairs its ability to function properly. How cirrhosis develops:
Chronic infection: Over time, chronic hepatitis B causes ongoing damage to liver cells.
Fibrosis: As liver cells are damaged, the liver attempts to repair itself, but this process results in the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis).
Progression to cirrhosis: When scar tissue accumulates, it replaces healthy liver tissue, leading to cirrhosis. The liver becomes hard and rigid, reducing its ability to filter toxins, produce essential proteins, and store nutrients.
Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma - HCC)
Liver cancer is one of the most serious complications of chronic hepatitis B infection. People with chronic hepatitis B are at higher risk of developing liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma - HCC), especially if they also have cirrhosis. Here is how Hepatitis B Leads to Liver Cancer:
Chronic inflammation: The ongoing inflammation from the hepatitis B virus causes damage to liver cells over time. This damage leads to cellular mutations, which can increase the likelihood of cancerous changes in the liver.
Increased replication of the virus: In people with chronic hepatitis B, the virus continuously replicates in liver cells, increasing the chances of genetic mutations that may lead to cancer.
Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis, which often accompanies chronic hepatitis B infection, increases the likelihood of liver cancer. Scar tissue from cirrhosis can cause abnormal cell growth, resulting in tumors.
Hepatitis B & Pregnancy
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. For pregnant women, hepatitis B poses a unique set of challenges, as the infection can be passed from the mother to her baby during childbirth. However, with proper care, the risk of mother-to-child transmission can be significantly reduced, and most babies born to mothers with hepatitis B can grow up healthy. Let’s delve deeper into how hepatitis B affects pregnancy, how it can be transmitted to the baby, and the steps that can be taken to prevent transmission.
How Hepatitis B is Transmitted from Mother to Baby?
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be transmitted to the baby during labor and delivery. This type of transmission is known as vertical transmission. It typically occurs through contact with infected blood or body fluids, such as vaginal fluids or blood, during the birth process.In most cases, a mother with chronic hepatitis B (especially if she has a high viral load) can pass the virus to her baby. The risk of transmission is higher if the mother has a high concentration of the hepatitis B virus in her blood, but the virus can also be transmitted even when the mother's viral load is lower.
Transmission occurs mainly in two ways:
During vaginal delivery: The baby is exposed to the virus through contact with infected fluids.
Intrauterine transmission: In rare cases, the virus can also be transmitted to the baby while still in the uterus, although this is less common.
The likelihood of transmission increases if the mother is hepatitis B e-antigen positive (HBeAg-positive), as she has a higher level of the virus in her bloodstream. If the mother’s hepatitis B infection is diagnosed early, steps can be taken to reduce the risk of passing the virus on to the child.
The Risk of Chronic Hepatitis B in the Baby
If a baby contracts hepatitis B at birth and does not receive timely treatment, there is a high risk of developing chronic hepatitis B. This chronic infection can lead to long-term health problems, including liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure later in life. However, the risk of chronic infection is significantly reduced if the baby receives proper post-birth treatment.
Infants born to mothers who are positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg-positive) have a 90% chance of developing chronic hepatitis B if they are not treated promptly after birth.
If the baby does not receive treatment, it can carry the virus for life and continue to spread it to others.
Therefore, preventing transmission at birth is critical to preventing lifelong hepatitis B infection in the baby.
Preventing Hepatitis B Transmission to the Baby
To minimise the risk of transmission from mother to baby, doctors and healthcare providers follow a series of preventive steps. These treatments are effective and can reduce the risk of transmission to nearly 0% when used together.
Hepatitis B Vaccine for Newborns
The first line of defence is administering the hepatitis B vaccine to the baby as soon as possible after birth. This vaccine is highly effective in protecting the baby from infection.
Key points about the hepatitis B vaccine:
First dose: It is usually given within 12 hours after birth, ideally within the first 24 hours. This ensures that the baby has immediate protection against the virus.
Vaccine schedule: The baby will typically receive three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine:
The first dose is given at birth.
The second dose is usually given at 1–2 months of age.
The third dose is administered at 6 months of age.
The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the baby’s immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, helping the body fight off any potential infection.
Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (HBIG)
In addition to the hepatitis B vaccine, Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (HBIG) may be administered to the newborn. HBIG contains high levels of antibodies against hepatitis B, providing immediate passive immunity and further reducing the risk of infection.
When HBIG is given, It is recommended that HBIG be administered to the newborn within 12 hours of birth, preferably at the same time as the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine.
Dosage: The typical dosage for HBIG is 0.5 mL (administered by injection into the muscle), though the exact dose can vary depending on the infant's weight and other factors.
HBIG works by giving the baby an immediate immune response that can fight off the virus until the vaccine has time to activate the child’s immune system and create long-term immunity.
Monitoring and Follow-up Care
After birth, the baby will need regular follow-up appointments to ensure that the vaccine has worked and that the baby has developed immunity to the virus.
HBsAg testing: It is important to test the baby for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B antibodies after completing the vaccination series. These tests usually occur around 9–12 months of age to confirm that the child has developed immunity and has not contracted the virus.
Vaccination status: In some cases, additional vaccine doses or follow-up doses may be needed if there is evidence that the baby didn’t respond well to the initial doses.
Management During Pregnancy
For pregnant women diagnosed with hepatitis B, it’s important to receive proper medical care and follow treatment protocols to reduce the risk of transmission during pregnancy and childbirth:
Antiviral therapy for the mother: If the mother has a high viral load (high levels of hepatitis B virus in her blood) or is HBeAg-positive, antiviral medications (such as tenofovir) may be prescribed during the last trimester of pregnancy. These medications help reduce the mother’s viral load, which lowers the likelihood of transmitting the virus to the baby during delivery.
Cesarean section: There is no strong evidence that a caesarean delivery (C-section) significantly reduces the risk of transmitting hepatitis B from mother to baby. However, in cases where the mother has active genital infections or high viral loads, a C-section might be considered to reduce the risk of other complications. Most women with hepatitis B can safely deliver vaginally with proper precautions.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The hepatitis B vaccine is a key tool in preventing hepatitis B infection, a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The vaccine is safe, highly effective, and can protect individuals from the virus for many years. Here’s a deeper look at how the vaccine works, its schedule, and why it’s important for everyone, especially those at risk.
How Does the Hepatitis B Vaccine Work?
The hepatitis B vaccine works by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies against the hepatitis B virus (HBV). These antibodies help your body recognize and fight off the virus if you are ever exposed to it. The vaccine does not contain live virus, meaning it cannot give you hepatitis B. It is made from a non-infectious part of the virus, allowing your immune system to recognize the virus without causing illness.
Vaccination Schedule
The hepatitis B vaccine is generally given as a series of three doses. This schedule helps ensure that the immune system produces enough antibodies to offer long-lasting protection.
For Newborns and Children
First dose: The first dose is typically given at birth or within the first 24 hours after birth. This is especially important for babies born to mothers with hepatitis B, as it prevents transmission at birth.
Second dose: The second dose is given 1–2 months after the first dose. This helps boost the immune system's response and ensures continued protection.
Third dose: The third dose is usually given 6 months after the first dose. This final dose completes the series, giving the immune system full protection.
For Adults and Adolescents
If an adult has not been vaccinated in childhood, they can receive the vaccine as well. The vaccine is administered in three doses, typically as follows:
First dose: Administered at a time that works best for the individual.
Second dose: Administered 1–2 months after the first dose.
Third dose: Administered 6 months after the first dose.
Who Should Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?
Newborns: As part of the routine immunization schedule, newborns receive the vaccine shortly after birth to prevent early transmission.
Children: All children, especially in regions where hepatitis B is common, should receive the full vaccination series.
Adults: Adults who have not previously been vaccinated should get the hepatitis B vaccine, particularly if they are at increased risk of infection. This includes:
People with multiple sexual partners.
Healthcare workers who may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
People who inject drugs or share needles.
People with chronic liver disease, such as those with hepatitis C or HIV.
People traveling to regions with high rates of hepatitis B.
How Can I Prevent Hepatitis B Infection?
Prevention of hepatitis B revolves around taking certain precautions to reduce exposure to the virus, which is primarily transmitted through blood and body fluids. Below are some important steps to take:
Get Vaccinated
The most effective way to prevent hepatitis B is to get vaccinated. This protects you from the virus and significantly reduces your risk of developing chronic hepatitis B and its complications, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Both children and adults should receive the hepatitis B vaccine, especially those at risk of exposure.
Use Protection During Sex
Hepatitis B can be spread through sexual contact, particularly with multiple sexual partners. Using condoms every time you have sex, especially if you or your partner have multiple partners or are at risk of infection, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.
Avoid Sharing Needles or Personal Items
The virus can also be spread through blood, so it’s important to avoid sharing needles, syringes, or other drug paraphernalia. This is a common risk factor among people who inject drugs. Similarly, sharing personal items such as razors, toothbrushes, or nail clippers can also expose you to the virus if they are contaminated with blood.
Ensure Blood Products are Tested for Hepatitis B
In many countries, blood products are routinely tested for hepatitis B as part of screening processes to ensure the safety of blood transfusions. However, if you need blood transfusions, it’s a good idea to ask if the blood has been tested for hepatitis B to ensure your safety.
Safe Practices for Healthcare Workers
Healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and laboratory technicians, should always follow standard precautions when handling blood and body fluids to prevent accidental exposure to hepatitis B. This includes wearing gloves, using needleless systems, and practicing proper disposal of needles.Healthcare workers who are at high risk of exposure should be vaccinated against hepatitis B, as they are more likely to come into contact with infected blood during their work.
Prevent Mother-to-Child Transmission
For pregnant women diagnosed with hepatitis B, it is essential to follow proper medical care. If a mother is infected with the virus, the baby should receive the hepatitis B vaccine and HBIG (hepatitis B immune globulin) shortly after birth to prevent the virus from being transmitted during delivery.
Travel to High-Risk Areas
If you are travelling to countries or regions where hepatitis B is common (such as parts of Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Eastern Europe), consider getting vaccinated before your trip. The vaccine can protect you from exposure during travel.
Safe Tattooing and Piercing
If you are getting a tattoo or piercing, make sure the establishment follows proper sanitation practices and uses sterile equipment. Hepatitis B can be transmitted if equipment is not properly cleaned and sterilised between uses.
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Hepatitis B Treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospital is a leading healthcare facility in Gurgaon that provides world-class treatment for Hepatitis B. If you or a loved one is battling Hepatitis B, here’s why Artemis Hospital should be your first choice for comprehensive care:
Expert Team of Hepatitis B Specialists
Advanced Diagnostic Technology
Comprehensive Hepatitis B Treatment Plans
Focus on Preventive Care and Vaccination
Personalized Support for Chronic Hepatitis B
To book an appointment with some of the best General Physicians in Gurgaon at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 959-928-5476. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or by downloading the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Giriraj Bora
Chief - Liver and Biliary Sciences, Organ Transplant
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
How Common is Hepatitis B Infection?
Hepatitis B is common worldwide, especially in parts of Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. However, in countries like India, vaccination programs have significantly reduced the incidence.
Who is at Risk of Hepatitis B?
People who engage in unprotected sex, share needles, or have close contact with someone infected are at higher risk.
Which Hepatitis is Not Curable?
While hepatitis C is generally more difficult to cure, hepatitis B can often be managed with antiviral drugs, though a cure is not always guaranteed.
What is Worse, Hepatitis B or C?
Both hepatitis B and C are serious liver infections. However, chronic hepatitis C is more likely to cause liver damage over time compared to hepatitis B.
Can a Person with Hepatitis B Get a Liver Transplant?
Yes, in cases where hepatitis B causes severe liver damage, a liver transplant may be required.
How Long Does the Hepatitis B Vaccine Last?
The hepatitis B vaccine provides long-lasting protection, often for life, though some people may require a booster dose in rare cases.
What Are the Hepatitis B Screening Guidelines?
People at higher risk, such as healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, or those with a family history of liver disease, should get tested for hepatitis B.
What’s the Prognosis for Hepatitis B?
With early detection and treatment, the prognosis for hepatitis B can be good. Chronic hepatitis B requires careful management to avoid liver complications.
Who is the Best Doctor Near Me for Hepatitis B Treatment?
Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, has some of the best hepatologists and gastroenterologists experienced in diagnosing and treating Hepatitis B with medical and options personalized to your needs.
What factors affect the cost of Hepatitis B treatment in Gurgaon?
The cost of Hepatitis B treatment in Gurgaon depends on factors such as the type of treatment (antiviral medications, liver transplant), duration of care, and the expertise of the treating doctor.
Which is the best hospital for Hepatitis B treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals is one of the best hospitals in Gurgaon for hepatitis treatment, offering expert care through experienced hepatologists and gastroenterologists, advanced diagnostic tools, and personalized treatment plans for all types of hepatitis, including Hepatitis A, B, C, and more.
