Recognizing Symptoms of Hepatitis B Infection
Hepatitis B often shows no symptoms but can lead to serious liver complications if untreated. Recognizing early signs like jaundice, fatigue, and nausea helps in timely diagnosis and management. Understanding the infection's symptoms is essential for prevention and avoiding long-term health issues such as liver cirrhosis and cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Hepatitis B You Should Know
Often called a “silent infection”, hepatitis B may go unnoticed without obvious symptoms. Be aware of these potential signs of hepatitis B.
Surprisingly, over 69% of individuals infected with hepatitis B do not exhibit any symptoms. About 30% may experience symptoms but commonly mistake them for flu or other illnesses. Only around 1% develop a severe complication called fulminant hepatitis, which can involve liver failure and require urgent medical intervention.
Common Indicators of Hepatitis B
Many carriers remain asymptomatic, but when symptoms do appear, they often resemble flu-like conditions. These include:
- Reduced appetite
- Persistent tiredness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Liver discomfort or pain
- Itching all over the body
- Darker urine, similar to cola or tea
- Pale or clay-colored stools
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
Signs of other viral hepatitis types, such as A and C, can mimic these symptoms.
If you experience severe symptoms like extreme fatigue, confusion, hallucinations, abdominal swelling, or jaundice, seek immediate medical attention, as these may indicate fulminant hepatitis, which can be life-threatening.
Since early hepatitis B symptoms can be subtle or absent, damage might only be detectable at advanced stages. Symptoms like swelling, persistent jaundice, bleeding, or fluid buildup should prompt urgent medical evaluation.
If you suspect exposure to hepatitis B, consult a healthcare professional promptly, regardless of whether symptoms are present.
