Overview
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are common in Pakistan. Both viruses can cause long-term (chronic) liver infection that may not cause symptoms for years. Testing is important because effective treatment is available: hepatitis C can usually be cured, and hepatitis B can be controlled.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms
- Tiredness
- Poor appetite and nausea
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
How it spreads
- Unsafe injections or reuse of needles and syringes
- Unscreened blood transfusions
- Unsterile medical, dental or cosmetic procedures, and shared razors
- From mother to baby at birth (mainly hepatitis B)
- Unprotected sex (mainly hepatitis B)
Diagnosis
Blood tests detect the viruses and show how active the infection is. Liver function tests, ultrasound and other scans help assess liver damage.
Treatment
Hepatitis C is usually cured with a course of antiviral tablets. Chronic hepatitis B is controlled with long-term antiviral medicines when needed. Regular monitoring checks liver health. The hepatitis B vaccine prevents infection.
When to see a doctor
Get tested if you may have been exposed. Seek care promptly for jaundice, confusion, vomiting blood or swelling of the abdomen.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
