What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis B?

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The symptoms of Hepatitis B infection may vary depending on whether the disease is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). In some people, the infection progresses without any symptoms, while in others it can cause serious symptoms.

Symptoms of Acute Hepatitis B

Acute infection typically begins to show symptoms 1-4 months after infection. These symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue and Weakness: One of the most common symptoms.
  • Loss of Appetite: Lack of desire to eat and nausea.
  • Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort, especially in the liver area.
  • Jaundice: Yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin.
  • Dark-Colored Urine: Urine that is dark yellow or brown.
  • Light-Colored Stool: Stool that is lighter in color than normal.
  • Muscle and Joint Pain: Pain felt throughout the body.
  • Fever: A mild fever may be present.
  • Itching: Widespread itching of the skin.

Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis B

Chronic infection may not show symptoms for many years or may progress with mild symptoms. However, as liver damage begins to occur over time, symptoms become more serious:

  • Persistent Fatigue: Constant fatigue is felt in chronic infection.
  • Liver Enlargement: Pressure or fullness felt under the right rib cage.
  • Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Advanced Stage): Indicates liver damage.
  • Swelling: Fluid buildup in the abdomen or legs.
  • Severe Abdominal Pain: May be a sign of liver failure.

Asymptomatic Infection

In some people, Hepatitis B can progress "silently" without any symptoms. This means that the person carries the virus but is unaware of it. Therefore, regular health checkups and screening tests are important.

What to Do When Symptoms Appear?

If Hepatitis B infection is suspected, a healthcare facility should be consulted without delay. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent complications of acute infection and reduce the risk of chronicity.

The symptoms of Hepatitis B can be confused with other illnesses, so blood tests are necessary for a definitive diagnosis.