Hepatitis B symptoms

Hepatitis B: A silent disease

Hepatitis B infection, which is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), is often called a "silent" disease because most people do not have any symptoms of infection. So you may feel healthy even if you have a chronic (or long-term) infection. But the virus may be damaging your liver for years—or even decades. Over time, this may lead to serious liver damage in some people.

That's why testing and regular visits to the doctor are so important. If you think you may have come into contact with HBV, call your doctor right away. A simple blood test can show if you have been infected with HBV.

If you have chronic hepatitis B, visit your doctor regularly, even if you have no hepatitis B symptoms. Regular visits allow your doctor to monitor your condition, the status of the virus, and the health of your liver. Learn more.

Common hepatitis B symptoms

Sometimes, hepatitis B can make you feel like you have the flu. You may have mild hepatitis B symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Tiredness
• Joint or muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Mild nausea and vomiting

Serious hepatitis B symptoms

Less common but more serious hepatitis B symptoms that require immediate medical attention include:

• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
• Swollen stomach