Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver. It is spread through blood, semen or bodily fluids. If you think you might have put yourself at risk for hepatitis B or have symptoms, you should see your doctor so that you can get tested. If you have shared needles to inject drugs in the past, have had multiple sexual partners, or have shared personal items such as razors or toothbrushes with someone who has had hepatitis B, you may be at risk. Most persons with symptoms have them two to three months after becoming infected, according to the Mayo Clinic. The CDC estimates 800,000 to 1.4 million people are affected by hepatitis B in the United States.
Fever, Joint Pain and Fatigue
Since this is an infection, you may have an elevated temperature. An elevated temperature is over 99 degrees. You may also be very tired or lethargic, and experience joint pain. These symptoms are consistent with the flu or other viral illnesses, so it is important that if you have put yourself at risk, to get tested and identify the source of infection.
Loss of Appetite, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal symptoms are common. You might not feel hungry, or you may experience nausea and vomiting. Abdominal pain is possible as well. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for the flu or another gastrointestinal problem.
Dark Urine or Clay-Colored Stool
Your urine may be dark in color, or your stool might be the color of clay. Unusual coloring of urine or stool is a sign that should be reported to your doctor.
Jaundice
Jaundice is yellowing of the sclera, or white parts of your eyes and skin. This is caused by an elevated bilirubin level, which happens when the liver is affected. A slight discoloration may be noticed on the forehead or in the mucous membranes. However, in severe cases, when a person has jaundice, he has an obvious yellowing of the skin.
No Symptoms
Although 70 percent of infected adults develop symptoms, some persons with hepatitis B experience no symptoms at all. Persons who don't have symptoms can still pass hepatitis B to other people. The best way to prevent hepatitis B infection is to get vaccinated.
