Answer:

Hepatitis B is a disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is classified into two types: acute and chronic. Acute hepatitis B causes symptoms for less than 6 months and can resolve on its own if the patient has a strong enough immune system to completely eliminate the virus. Acute hepatitis B often presents with few symptoms. Doctors usually diagnose it through physical examination and blood tests to detect elevated liver enzymes, high bilirubin (the bile pigment that causes jaundice), blood clotting disorders that cause bleeding, and the presence of the hepatitis B virus.

Doctor Thanh examines a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Thanh examines a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Depending on the degree of liver dysfunction, doctors may prescribe specific medications or simply recommend rest and supportive treatment. Some cases of acute hepatitis B can develop into chronic hepatitis B, often due to factors like a weakened immune system, older age, or improper treatment. Without appropriate treatment, the disease can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. When chronic hepatitis B flares up, patients may experience fatigue, loss of appetite, or significantly elevated liver enzymes.

Chronic hepatitis B cannot be cured. However, medications can help reduce the viral load in the blood, decrease the risk of transmission and complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer, and improve quality of life.

You should have regular check-ups so your doctor can monitor and assess your condition and provide timely treatment. In addition, regular exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet with a variety of fresh foods like vegetables, fruits, fish, and lean meats can help maintain a healthy immune system.

Doctor Hoang Dinh Thanh

Center for Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Digestive Surgery

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM