Chronic Hepatitis B

Comprehensive Care for Long-Term Liver Health

What is Chronic Hepatitis B?

Chronic Hepatitis B is a long-term infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This condition can lead to progressive liver damage, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, if left untreated.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of chronic hepatitis B, offering advanced treatment options to protect and improve liver health while preventing complications.

Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis B

Many individuals with chronic hepatitis B may not experience symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, symptoms may include:

• Fatigue and weakness.
• Loss of appetite.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Dark urine or pale stools.
• Joint or muscle pain.

If you have these symptoms or are at risk of HBV infection, it’s essential to seek evaluation for timely intervention.

How is Hepatitis B Spread?

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through:

• Blood-to-Blood Contact: Sharing needles, syringes, or exposure to infected blood.
• Unprotected Sexual Contact: With an infected partner.
• Mother-to-Child Transmission: During childbirth.
• Unsafe Medical Practices: Use of unsterilized medical equipment.

Complications of Chronic Hepatitis B

Without proper management, chronic hepatitis B can lead to:

• Fibrosis: Scarring of liver tissue.
• Cirrhosis: Severe liver scarring impairing liver function.
• Liver Failure: The liver loses its ability to perform vital functions.
• Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Liver Cancer): A significant risk in patients with chronic HBV.
• Co-Infections: Such as hepatitis D, which can worsen liver disease.

Diagnosis of Chronic Hepatitis B

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm HBV infection and assess liver health:

• • Blood Tests: 
    • HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen): Indicates active infection.
    • HBV DNA Levels: To measure viral load and monitor disease progression.
    • Liver Function Tests: To evaluate liver enzyme levels and detect liver damage.
    • HBeAg (Hepatitis B e Antigen): To assess viral activity and infectiousness.
  • Imaging Studies: 
    • Ultrasound, CT, or MRI to detect liver damage, fibrosis, or tumors.
  • FibroScan®: A non-invasive tool to assess liver stiffness and fibrosis. 

• UGAP for Simple Ultrasound based Liver Fat Estimation

• Liver Biopsy: In select cases to evaluate the extent of liver damage.

Treatment Options for Chronic Hepatitis B

At Central Gastro, we provide comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your condition:

1. Antiviral Medications
2. Regular Monitoring

• Routine blood tests to monitor viral load, liver function, and disease progression.
• Periodic imaging to screen for liver cancer and fibrosis.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet low in saturated fats and high in nutrients to support liver health.
• Alcohol Avoidance: To reduce additional liver damage.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity to maintain overall health.

4. Vaccination for Close Contacts

• Protects family members or household contacts who are not already immune to HBV.

5. Management of Complications

• Treatment for cirrhosis or liver failure, including advanced therapies or transplant evaluation if necessary.

Prevention of Hepatitis B

• Vaccination: Highly effective HBV vaccine recommended for all newborns, children, and high-risk adults.
• Safe Practices: Use sterilized medical equipment, avoid sharing needles, and practice safe sex.
• Screening of Blood Donors: Reduces the risk of transmission through blood transfusion.

When to Seek Treatment for Hepatitis B

If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, are at risk of infection, or experience symptoms such as fatigue or jaundice, seek medical evaluation. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.