Viral Hepatitis B - WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Posted by Snehsan

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW :

Hepatitis B is an inflammation (swelling) of the liver due to infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (germ). The liver is in the upper right side of the abdomen (stomach). It makes enzymes and removes harmful material from the blood. The liver also fights infections and stops bleeding. Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected blood or body fluids or having sex with an infected person. Signs and symptoms may include fever or fatigue (feeling more tired than usual). You may also have jaundice which is a yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes. Other signs and symptoms are dark orange-colored urine, clay-colored bowel movements, nausea (upset stomach), or vomiting (throwing up).

• 
  
  Hepatitis B may cause other liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, cancer, or liver failure. Hepatitis B is diagnosed by blood tests, an abdominal ultrasound, or liver biopsy. Treatment may include medicines or surgery. Hepatitis B may be prevented by a vaccination (shot).

INSTRUCTIONS :

Medicines :
Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Learn why you take each medicine. Ask your caregiver for information about your medicine. Do not use any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.

Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver. If you are taking medicine that makes you drowsy, do not drive or use heavy equipment.

Do not take any medicines without first asking your caregiver. This includes medicine that your caregiver has ordered for you and over-the-counter medicine. Talk to your caregiver before using vitamins, herbs, herbal teas, laxatives, or food supplements. Some of these medicines could harm your liver.

Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.

Alcohol : Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can damage your brain, heart, and liver. Almost every part of your body can be harmed by alcohol. Drinking alcohol can also make your illness worse. Talk to your caregiver if you drink alcohol, and ask for information about how to stop.

Diet : Eat a variety of healthy foods from all the food groups every day. Include whole grain bread, cereal, rice and pasta. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including dark green and orange vegetables and legumes (dry beans). Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Choose protein sources such as lean meat and poultry (chicken), fish, beans, eggs and nuts. Ask your caregiver how many servings of fats, oils, and sweets you may have each day, and if you need to be on a special diet.

Rest : You may feel like resting more. Slowly start to do more each day. Rest when you feel it is needed.
CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF :

• 
  
  You have a fever (increased body temperature).


• 
  
  You are vomiting (throwing up) and cannot keep food or liquids down.


• 
  
  You have bad abdominal (stomach) pain.


• 
  
  You have questions or concerns about your disease, medicine, or care.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF :

• 
  
  You are too dizzy to stand up.


• 
  
  You feel confused or are very sleepy.


• 
  
  Your bowel movements (BMs or stools) are red, black, or clay-colored.


• 
  
  Your symptoms are getting worse.


• 
  
  Your vomit (throw up) has blood in it or looks like coffee grounds.

Note : The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.