Chronic Hepatitis B

Chronic Hepatitis B is a long-term condition in which the virus remains active in the body, resulting in persistent hepatitis. To better understand chronic hepatitis B, we need to distinguish between:
Active chronic hepatitis B.
Persistent chronic hepatitis B.

The difference between acute hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis B
Hepatitis can develop into two main forms: acute hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis B. The difference between the two is important in diagnosis and treatment.
Acute Hepatitis B
Acute hepatitis occurs when the hepatitis B virus first enters the body. When the virus enters the body, it causes obvious symptoms in a short period of time, usually less than 6 months. Symptoms of acute hepatitis B may include:
High body temperature, often accompanied by chills.
Feeling tired for a long time, lacking energy, affecting the ability to work and live.
Decreased appetite, leading to unwanted weight loss.
The skin and eyes may turn yellow due to increased bilirubin in the blood. This is a clear sign of hepatitis.
Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, especially in the upper right side, where the liver is located. The pain may be dull or sharp, reducing the patient's quality of life.
Acute hepatitis can go away on its own in some cases without special treatment. However, if the immune system cannot control the virus, acute hepatitis can turn into chronic hepatitis.

Chronic hepatitis B

Chronic hepatitis B occurs when the virus stays in the body for a long time, lasting more than 6 months. Chronic hepatitis may have no obvious symptoms or only mild symptoms. Symptoms of chronic hepatitis B may include:
A persistent feeling of fatigue and lack of energy that affects the patient's ability to work and live. This fatigue may be one of the first symptoms and last for months or years.
A decreased appetite, leading to unwanted weight loss. The patient may feel full faster than usual and reduce the amount of food consumed daily.
A yellowing of the skin and eyes, a sign of increased bilirubin in the blood. This is a sign that liver function is being affected and may be a sign of severe hepatitis.
Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, especially in the upper right side. The pain may be dull or sharp, affecting the patient's daily activities and quality of life.
Acute hepatitis B
Acute hepatitis occurs when the hepatitis B virus first enters the body. When the virus enters the body, it will cause obvious symptoms in a short time, usually less than 6 months. Symptoms of acute hepatitis B may include:
High body temperature, often accompanied by chills.
Prolonged feeling of fatigue, lack of energy, affecting the ability to work and live.
Reduced appetite, leading to unwanted weight loss.
The skin and eyes may turn yellow due to increased bilirubin in the blood. This is a clear sign of hepatitis.
Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, especially in the upper right side, where the liver is located. The pain may be dull or sharp, reducing the patient's quality of life.
Acute hepatitis can resolve on its own in some cases without special treatment. However, if the immune system cannot control the virus, acute hepatitis can turn into chronic hepatitis.

Preventing Chronic Persistent Hepatitis B

Effective prevention of hepatitis B includes following measures to protect and control liver health. Some preventive measures include:
Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B is the most effective way to prevent infection with the virus. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, reducing the risk of infection
Avoid contact with blood and body fluids of people infected with hepatitis B. This is especially true in situations such as patient care, exposure to medical equipment, and work environments with a high risk of infection.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet. Exercise regularly, and limit alcohol and other substances that are harmful to the liver. A healthy lifestyle helps support liver health and reduces the risk of problems related to hepatitis B.
Get regular tests and follow-ups to detect early signs of viral infection and liver problems. Regular monitoring helps detect health problems early and treat them promptly.

Acute hepatitis can resolve on its own in some cases without special treatment. However, if the immune system cannot control the virus, acute hepatitis can turn into chronic hepatitis.

Summary

Based on the above information, OneLab Medical Center recommends that regular monitoring, timely treatment, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are very important to control the disease and protect liver health. Chronic persistent hepatitis B is a special medical condition that requires careful monitoring and management. Therefore, if you suspect that you may have chronic hepatitis B, contact your doctor for advice and appropriate treatment.
Acute hepatitis can resolve on its own in some cases without special treatment. However, if the immune system cannot control the virus, acute hepatitis can turn into chronic hepatitis.