Overview

Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and body fluids. While some recover spontaneously, others develop lifelong infection requiring regular monitoring

Causes

• Blood transfusions or contaminated needles
• Unprotected sexual contact
• Mother-to-child during childbirth
• Tattooing or piercing with unsterile instruments

Symptoms

• Fatigue, jaundice
• Abdominal pain, dark urine
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea, joint pain
• In chronic cases: liver enlargement, cirrhosis signs

Treatment: Modern Medicine

• Diagnosis: HBsAg, HBeAg, Anti-HBs, HBV DNA PCR
• Treatment:
  • Acute: Supportive care
  • Chronic: Antiviral therapy (Tenofovir, Entecavir)
  • Liver function monitoring every 6–12 months
  • Liver transplant in end-stage cases

Treatment: Traditional Medicine

• Ayurveda: Bhumyamalaki, Katuki, Kalmegh – liver detox and antiviral properties
• Siddha: Keelanelli, Sirukanpeelai for liver strength
• Unani: Sharbat-e-Unnab, Majoon Dabeedul Ward
• TCM: Schisandra, Milk Thistle, Rehmannia
• Homeopathy: Chelidonium, Carduus marianus
• Nutraceuticals: Milk thistle extract, NAC, Vitamin E, Selenium

Caution

• HBV is highly contagious via blood contact
• Alcohol accelerates liver damage in HBV patients
• Screening of family members recommended

Prevention

• Hepatitis B vaccine (birth + 3 doses)
• Avoid sharing razors, needles
• Safe sex and screened blood transfusions