What You Need to Know

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to serious health problems if not treated early. It is caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and is one of the most common liver infections worldwide. Many people may not even realize they are infected because the symptoms can be mild or sometimes absent, especially in the early stages. However, without proper care, it can lead to long-term liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

At Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, under the care of Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, Consultant in the Transplant Hepatology Department, patients receive expert care for Hepatitis B using the latest treatments and approaches that are both safe and effective.

How Does Hepatitis B Spread?

Hepatitis B spreads from an infected person to another through contact with infected body fluids such as blood, semen, or other fluids. Some of the common ways HBV spreads include:

• From mother to baby during childbirth
• Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
• Sharing needles or syringes (for example, in drug use)
• Blood transfusions or medical procedures with unsterilized equipment
• Sharing personal items like razors, toothbrushes, or other objects that may have blood on them

It is important to note that Hepatitis B cannot spread through casual contact, such as hugging, sharing utensils, or coughing.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B

In many cases, people with Hepatitis B may not show any symptoms for months or even years. When symptoms appear, they may include:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain, especially near the liver
• Dark-colored urine and pale stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Joint pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after possible exposure to the virus, it is important to get tested. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

Who is at Risk?

Certain groups of people are at higher risk of contracting Hepatitis B, including:

• Infants born to infected mothers
• People with multiple sexual partners
• Healthcare workers exposed to blood and body fluids
• People with weak immune systems
• Individuals undergoing frequent medical treatments or blood transfusions
• People who use shared needles

If you belong to any of these categories, you should speak with your doctor about screening and vaccination.

How is Hepatitis B Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Hepatitis B is done through a simple blood test that checks for the presence of the virus or the body’s immune response to it. Some of the common tests include:

• HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) – Shows if the virus is active
• Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B surface antibody) – Shows if you are immune
• HBV DNA test – Measures the amount of virus in the blood
• Liver function tests – Assesses how well your liver is working

Depending on the results, your doctor may recommend further tests such as an ultrasound or liver biopsy to check the liver’s condition.

Treatment for Hepatitis B

There is no complete cure for Hepatitis B in most cases, but with proper treatment, the virus can be controlled and complications can be prevented. The treatment plan may include:

1. Antiviral Medications
   These medicines help reduce the virus’s ability to multiply, protecting the liver from further damage. They are often prescribed for long-term use and monitored regularly.
2. Regular Monitoring
   Frequent blood tests and scans are necessary to track liver health and detect early signs of liver damage.
3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
   • Avoid alcohol, as it can worsen liver damage
   • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
   • Exercise regularly to maintain overall health
   • Get vaccinated to protect against other types of hepatitis
4. Liver Transplant (in severe cases)
   For patients with advanced liver failure due to chronic Hepatitis B, a liver transplant may be recommended as a life-saving option. Dr. Tushar Madke, with his expertise in transplant hepatology, provides advanced care and personalized treatment plans at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune.

Prevention is Key

The best way to protect yourself and others from Hepatitis B is through vaccination. The Hepatitis B vaccine is safe, highly effective, and recommended for all newborns, children, and adults at risk. In addition to vaccination, practicing safe behaviors such as using protection during sex, not sharing needles, and following infection control measures in healthcare settings can greatly reduce the risk.

Why Choose Expert Care at Ruby Hall Clinic?

Hepatitis B requires careful diagnosis, consistent monitoring, and a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s condition. At Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, Dr. Tushar Madke leads the Transplant Hepatology Department, offering advanced care for liver diseases including Hepatitis B.

With training from top institutions like ILBS, New Delhi and Dr. Rela Institute, Chennai, and over five years of experience in liver care, Dr. Madke combines clinical expertise with compassion. He helps patients manage chronic conditions, prevent complications, and make informed health choices.

Don’t Ignore Hepatitis B

If you suspect you are at risk or are experiencing symptoms, consult an expert today. Early diagnosis and proper care can protect your liver and give you a healthier, longer life. Reach out to Dr. Tushar Madke at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, for trusted, advanced liver care and treatment.

📞 Schedule your consultation today and take control of your liver health.