Diagnosis
Since many subjects do not develop symptoms of clinical relevance, the diagnosis of hepatitis B relies mainly on blood tests. These tests will investigate biological traces of the virus or the presence of specific antibodies against HBV.
Complications
The complications of hepatitis B can develop in chronic carriers after many years (30-40) from infection. The risk is greater the earlier the infection has occurred.
These complications include liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver failure.
The probability of death due to liver damage produced in the early phase (fulminant hepatitis) is around one percent.
People with hepatitis B are more exposed to the risk of infection by the HDV viral strain. This virus can only replicate if the virus responsible for hepatitis B is present; consequently it is not possible to contract hepatitis D in the absence of a simultaneous or pre-existing HBV virus infection. Transmission and risk factors are similar to those seen for hepatitis B. The simultaneous presence of the two viral strains increases the risk of developing serious liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Treatment
To learn more: Drugs for the treatment of hepatitis B
There is no universal or truly effective cure for hepatitis B and its possible consequences. The best thing to do is therefore to combat the disease through adequate prevention.
If you are aware that you have accidentally come into contact with the virus, it is essential to call a doctor immediately. A treatment with specific immunoglobulins within 24 hours of the infection, combined with a vaccination with subsequent recalls, can protect the patient from the development of the infection.
Once he has contracted hepatitis B it is essential to observe his progression, by carefully monitoring the symptoms of liver damage. If these are absent it is likely that no therapy is undertaken. Otherwise, the doctor can intervene with antiviral and immunostimulant drugs, which however are not always effective in eradicating the infection.
Following a diagnosis of hepatitis B, the doctor will recommend some lifestyle changes. These simple steps will help to preserve liver function as much as possible:
- avoid alcohol; alcohol is in fact able to worsen the course of liver diseases and in some cases is the main culprit.
- Avoid using drugs that can cause liver damage and seek advice from your doctor (even common over-the-counter medications can be dangerous for liver health, such as paracetamol-based painkillers).
- Follow a sober and balanced diet characterized by reduced consumption of saturated fats, fries, refined foods, excess calories, coffee and chocolate, in favor of fish, white meat, whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables. Your doctor may recommend supplementation with antioxidant products (selenium and N-acetylcysteine, glutathione precursor amino acid) or with detoxifying medicinal herbs (artichoke, milk thistle, silymarin). An abundant supply of non-alcoholic liquids (water, centrifuged and unsweetened fruit juices) is always recommended.
- In the presence of hepatitis B a regular physical activity may be helpful, but in this regard a preventive consultation with your doctor is very important.
