Most of the young generation considers oneself healthy as they feel lively, remain active in their lifestyle, and do not get sick often. However, there are some diseases which do not show themselves at all and cause damage to health silently; and Hepatitis B is one such disease. It has also been termed as the "silent infection" because the signs of its presence only come after a few years of having caused severe damage to the liver.
As there is one of the highest prevalence of Hepatitis B infection in the world in India, it becomes important that the young generation must be aware of it.
Understanding Hepatitis B and How It Spreads
Hepatitis B is a virus infection that targets mainly the liver. It can be spread by the exchange of body fluids of an infected individual with another person. The most popular ways through which it can be spread include giving birth as a baby from an infected mother, sexual intercourse without any protection, sharing of infected needles, improper practices of tattooing or piercing, and being accidentally exposed to infected blood.
It is a myth that Hepatitis B can be spread through the following simple acts such as kissing, handshaking, sharing of food, and coughing.
Why Young Indians Should Not Ignore the Risk
Liver disease is one of those diseases which many people think that it affects the elderly population or those who follow the unhealthy lifestyle. It can happen to college students, working individuals, health care practitioners, fitness junkies being injected with something or any other person undertaking a procedure.
This is because in the early stage of infection, there are no signs of anything happening to one's body. They feel healthy, but the virus is silently replicating in their body for years.
When Symptoms Finally Appear
Whereas some people do not feel any kind of symptoms, these type of conditions cause them to feel more tired, weak all the time during the day, abdominal pain and sudden loss of weight. At this stage, the liver will have suffered severe damage. Liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer are the complications that arise from chronic Hepatitis B.
Early Screening Can Save Lives
Fortunately for us, hepatitis B is a condition that can be prevented and treated. It can easily be diagnosed through blood tests, and even prior to the manifestation of any symptoms. People who have a history of liver diseases in the family, pregnant ladies, or those who may be exposed to the virus may want to take the test after discussing it with their doctors.
Vaccination: Your Strongest Line of Defence
The vaccination process is regarded as the only technique that can save an individual from Hepatitis B infection. The vaccination provides lifelong protection and is considered necessary for individuals who have not received any type of vaccine before. In addition to receiving the vaccination process, it is essential to practice proper healthcare, avoid using any type of needle or personal hygiene articles, sterile equipment for piercing and tattoos, and practicing safe sex.
Take Action Before Hepatitis B Takes Control
The danger of Hepatitis B infection lies not in the fact that it will always cause serious problems right away, but in the fact that the infection may be asymptomatic until serious liver damage has been done. To young Indians, putting awareness, vaccinations, and tests at the top of their list should be one of the most sensible investments.
Your liver works tirelessly all year round to keep your body in good shape. Never take the health of your liver for granted. Doing something today about your liver will ensure many more healthy years for it in the future.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are of the author and not of Health Dialogues. The Editorial/Content team of Health Dialogues has not contributed to the writing/editing/packaging of this article.
