One of the frequently asked questions on hepatitis is, what is the main cause of hepatitis B?
Well, before addressing a specific type of hepatitis, here is general knowledge of the disease.
Hepatitis is a virus that attacks the liver causing inflammation of the liver which prevents it from performing its duties. When the liver can no longer perform its duties, the body becomes fair game to diseases, explaining why with hepatitis comes a host of other diseases, including liver cirrhosis.
Hepatitis B is a deadly liver infection that is caused by the presence of the hepatitis B virus in the body. The presence of HBV in the body can cause cancer and liver cirrhosis and can lead to death.
How it is Transmitted
Hepatitis B can be transmitted through a parent. This is the most common means of transmission where the virus is transmitted from a mother to her child at birth.
HBV can also be transmitted when an uninfected person comes in contact with bodily fluids like fluids from the vagina, saliva, blood, or semen of an infected person.
Needles are also a means of transmission. Using the same needle as an infected person can be very dangerous. There are known instances where people contracted the disease through the use of unsterilized needles while getting piercings and tattoos.
Cure:
While there is no actual cure for acute HBV, vaccinating infants within 24 hours of their delivery has proven to be a very effective way to curb the spread of the virus.
There are also medications for chronic HBV. However, even though these medications are effective, you may have to continue with the medication for as long as you live.
This is why safe sex, vaccination, and mindful use of needles are being preached. It is easier to prevent HBV than treat it.