Can hepatitis B spread through sexual activities?

Hepatitis B is a severe viral infection that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can vary from acute to chronic illness. Long-standing, persistent infection can increase your risk of developing liver failure, liver cancer or cirrhosis.

What is concerning about liver disease is that it can spread from person to person through blood, semen or other body fluids. Sexual contact is one of the primary ways hepatitis B spreads. If you have unprotected sex with someone who is infected, you are likely to contract the infection and develop symptoms. 6 of these symptoms are listed below. Read on to find out about them.

​Also read: Fatty liver symptoms: 4 digestive problems that may signal advanced stages of fatty liver disease​

Fever

Hepatitis can cause inflammation in the liver, which in turn can trigger low-grade fever. It is the body’s natural response to an infection. Along with increased body temperature, one may also experience fatigue, headache and joint pain. However, note that fever can be caused by several other conditions and does not necessarily mean hepatitis B.

​Also read: Fatty liver disease: How to identify if you have fatty liver?​

Abdominal pain

According to the Mayo Clinic, a person with a chronic HBV infection can also experience abdominal pain. Usually, the symptom starts about 1 to 4 months after you’ve been infected.

Dark urine

The Hepatitis B Foundation suggests that people with hepatitis B may experience dark, tea colored urine. Clay-colored bowel movements may also be a tell-tale sign. These symptoms are usually not concerning. “If you are symptomatic, or you are concerned, please see your doctor, so blood tests can be run to be sure your liver is safe,” according to the charity.

Nausea and vomiting

Hepatitis B can cause liver inflammation, which can result in gastrointestinal symptoms. These include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.

Yellowing of skin

Liver inflammation and injury from hepatitis B can cause an increase in bilirubin, which can lead to ‘yellow jaundice’. Bilirubin is a chemical in the blood that can cause the skin to turn yellow. However, in order to differentiate between hepatitis and jaundice, you must get yourself tested and treated accordingly.