Signs and Symptoms of Hepatitis B You Should Know

Often called a "silent infection," hepatitis B can go unnoticed without obvious symptoms. Be vigilant for these signs of hepatitis B.

More than 69% of people infected with hepatitis B show no symptoms, while about 30% may experience vague flu-like symptoms that are easily mistaken for other illnesses. Only 1% may develop severe complications like fulminant hepatitis, leading to liver failure requiring urgent care.

Hepatitis B is classified as a "silent infection" because most individuals infected do not display distinct symptoms initially. This lack of awareness can lead to unknowingly transmitting the virus. The disease spreads through contact with contaminated blood.

Caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), the infection can be categorized into acute and chronic stages. Acute hepatitis B occurs shortly after infection, while chronic hepatitis B persists beyond six months. Children are particularly vulnerable to developing long-term symptoms.

If symptoms appear, they typically do so between 1 to 4 months post-exposure. Acute hepatitis B often resolves within weeks or months after symptoms subside. However, chronic hepatitis B can last indefinitely, with some experiencing persistent issues. Recognizing these signs early is vital for preventing serious liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

Why Recognizing Hepatitis B Symptoms Matters

As one of the most common serious liver infections worldwide, hepatitis B affects mainly adults aged 20 to 50. The liver’s vital role includes toxin filtration, energy storage, digestion support, immune response, and blood clotting. Chronic infection can cause irreversible damage, leading to liver failure or liver cancer. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent fatal outcomes, given that up to 25% of HBV-infected individuals may die from related liver diseases.

Typical Signs of Hepatitis B

Many infected individuals remain asymptomatic, but when symptoms appear, they resemble the flu:

A diminished appetite

Persistent fatigue

Nausea and vomiting

Liver pain

Itching all over

Dark urine resembling cola or tea

Clay-colored stools

Jaundice causing yellowing of the skin and eyes

Other viral hepatitis types like A and C can cause similar symptoms. Severe signs such as confusion, hallucinations, abdominal swelling, or jaundice may indicate fulminant hepatitis, requiring immediate medical attention. If untreated, these can be life-threatening.

Hepatitis B symptoms can be absent early on, making diagnosis difficult until significant liver damage occurs. Recognizing warning signs like fluid retention, jaundice, or bleeding is essential. Seek medical advice promptly if you suspect infection, regardless of symptoms.