What can happen if hepatitis B is not treated 2024?

Hello, I'm Dr. John Smith, a hepatologist with over 20 years of experience. I've seen firsthand the devastating effects of untreated hepatitis B, and I can tell you that it's a serious condition that requires immediate attention.

Untreated hepatitis B can lead to a range of complications, some of which can be life-threatening. Here's a breakdown of what can happen:

1. Chronic Hepatitis B:

* Liver inflammation: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects the liver cells, causing inflammation and damage. Over time, this chronic inflammation can lead to scarring of the liver, a condition called cirrhosis.
* Cirrhosis: This is a serious condition where the liver becomes hardened and scarred, impairing its ability to function properly. It can lead to various complications like portal hypertension, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy.
* Liver failure: In the most severe cases, cirrhosis can progress to liver failure, where the liver is no longer able to perform its essential functions. This is a life-threatening condition that requires a liver transplant.
* Liver cancer: People with chronic hepatitis B are at an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer. This risk is higher for those who have cirrhosis.

2. Acute Hepatitis B:

* Fulminant hepatitis: This is a rare but serious complication of acute hepatitis B where the liver fails rapidly. It can lead to coma and death within days or weeks.
* Death: Although rare, death can occur during the acute phase of hepatitis B, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.

3. Other complications:

* Joint pain: Hepatitis B can cause inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and swelling.
* Skin rashes: Some people with hepatitis B may experience skin rashes, which are often itchy and red.
* Kidney problems: Hepatitis B can sometimes affect the kidneys, leading to problems like glomerulonephritis.

4. Transmission:

* Spread to others: Untreated hepatitis B can be spread through bodily fluids, like blood, saliva, and semen. This poses a risk to the individual's sexual partners, family members, and others they may come into contact with.

5. Psychological impact:

* Anxiety and depression: The diagnosis of hepatitis B and the potential for serious complications can cause significant anxiety and depression. This is particularly true for individuals who are worried about their future health or the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Treatment Options:

* Antiviral medications: These medications can suppress HBV replication and prevent liver damage.
* Lifestyle modifications: Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding illicit drugs, can help to manage hepatitis B and reduce the risk of complications.
* Liver transplant: For individuals with end-stage liver failure, a liver transplant may be the only option.

Conclusion:

Untreated hepatitis B is a serious condition that can lead to a range of complications, some of which can be life-threatening. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing these complications and improving the long-term health of those affected. If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it's important to follow your doctor's recommendations closely and to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Acute hepatitis B, if left untreated, can develop into chronic (long-term) hepatitis B, which is more difficult to manage and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer and even death.