What Are the Differences Between Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C?

The main difference between hepatitis B and C is that people get hepatitis B from contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, such as through unprotected sex or sharing needles. It can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. On the other hand, hepatitis C tends to be spread through blood-to-blood contact.

Although both types of infection can become chronic, many people with acute hepatitis B don’t develop chronic illness. Conversely, if you have acute hepatitis C, the disease will likely become chronic over time.

Some types of hepatitis, such as chronic hepatitis B cannot be cured; however, there are several treatments available to manage symptoms. Those with hepatitis C can be cured as long as they undergo treatment, which usually involves taking a combination of antiviral medications for several weeks.

What Is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver. The cause of this inflammation varies and can be due to viruses, excess alcohol intake, drugs or exposure to various chemicals.

There are five types of viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D and E). The most common types in the United States are hepatitis B and C. Although each of these viruses is different, they all target the same organ—the liver, compromising its ability to perform several vital functions, including filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile to help digest fats and storing vitamins and minerals.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus and is spread mainly by sexual contact and contaminated needles. It can also be spread via tears and saliva.

When it becomes chronic, the virus can be present for a lifetime and eventually lead to liver cancer. To protect yourself from hepatitis B, you can take a one-time vaccine, which should provide permanent immunity to the virus.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus and is spread by blood-to-blood contact. Along with hepatitis B, it’s one of the most common types of hepatitis in the United States. Chronic hepatitis C can result in liver cirrhosis – a condition in which the liver becomes scarred and damaged, leading to a decrease in its ability to function.

Hep C is most often spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, birth or unregulated body piercings or tattoos. Transmission through blood transfusions and organ transplants are rare thanks to improved screening procedures but not impossible.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C

All types of hepatitis, including types B and C, have similar symptoms. These include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Dark urine
• Clay-colored stool
• Joint pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Itchy skin
• Fever
• Mental confusion

In some cases, people with hepatitis may experience no symptoms at all. If symptoms do occur, they usually appear within two to six weeks after exposure to the virus.

If you notice any of the symptoms above or you believe you’ve been exposed to the virus, you should see a doctor right away. If detected early, your hepatitis may be curable.

Treatment

Hepatitis B Treatment

Treatment for hepatitis B depends on the severity of the infection and whether it is acute or chronic. If your doctor determines you have acute hepatitis B, you’ll likely be treated with rest, fluids and medications to reduce symptoms such as fever, nausea and fatigue. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help reduce the amount of virus in the body and speed up recovery.

If you have chronic hepatitis B, you’ll require more aggressive treatment. You’ll likely need antiviral medications to suppress the virus and prevent further damage to the liver. These medications must be taken for several months or even years. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary if the liver damage is too severe.

Hepatitis C Treatment

The most common treatment for hepatitis C is a combination of antiviral medications. These medications work by blocking the virus from replicating and spreading in the body.

Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications from hepatitis C. These changes may include avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking and eating a healthful, nutrient-dense diet.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove part or all of an infected liver if it has become severely damaged due to the spread of the virus. As a last resort, liver transplantation may be an option for people with advanced stages of hepatitis C who are no longer responding to other treatments.

Get Specialty Treatment for Your Hepatitis B or C

At the St. Hope Foundation, we welcome Houston residents infected with hepatitis B or C to undergo our effective and affordable treatments.

If you’re a diagnosed patient living with either hepatitis B or hepatitis C, we’d love to help you clear or control your illness.

To learn more about our services or book an appointment, call (713) 778-1300 today.