Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that attacks the liver. The virus, which is called Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), can cause lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death.

How is Hepatitis B spread?

Hepatitis B, or HBV is spread when blood from an infected person enters the body of a person who is not hepatitis B positive. HBV is spread through having sex with an infected person without using a condom, by sharing drugs, needles when shooting drugs, through needle sticks or sharps.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or of the whites of your eyes)

Tiredness

Loss of appetite

Nausea

Abdominal discomfort

Dark urine

Clay-colored bowel movements

Joint pain

What are the risk factors for Hepatitis B?

Having sex with someone with HBV

Having sex with more than one partner

IV drug use

In the same house with someone who has chronic (long term) HBV infection.

Have hemophilia

Travel to areas where a hepatitis B positive diagnosis is common

Is there treatment for Hepatitis B?

There are no medications available for recently acquired (acute) HBV infection. There is a Hepatitis B vaccine available for the prevention of the infection. If you are hepatitis b positive, there are antiviral Hepatitis B drugs available for the treatment of chronic HBV infection. This is why it is crucial for anyone who is Hepatitis B Positive / HBSAG positive to participate in our Hepatitis B plasma donation program. We need your Hepatitis B plasma donation to help in several Hepatitis B clinical Trials and hepatitis be studies. Call to schedule a donation today!

Additional Hepatitis B Resources:

www.righthealth.com/topic/hepatitis_b

www.webmd.com