Managing Hepatitis B: Importance of Regular Check-ups and Communication with Doctors

Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by hepatitis B virus infection If patients are not treated promptly, they can develop cirrhosis and liver cancer in the long term. In addition, it is increasingly common for hepatitis B patients to suffer from comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension.

However, as medical technology continues to improve, hepatitis B patients can reduce their risk of complications by taking preventive measures and building trust between doctors and patients.

earlier than the last century80In the 1990s, new babies in Hong Kong began receiving free hepatitis B vaccination, which greatly reduced the chance of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B. However, according to the latest statistics, still around5.6%that is, approximately41Thousands of people suffer from hepatitis B, among them35People who are 10 years or older (ie under1988Hepatitis B infection rates were significantly higher among those born before the implementation of the universal childhood vaccination program.

Hepatitis B patients should pay attention to kidney health

The number of hepatitis B patients is getting older and comorbidities are increasing day by day, said Dr. Lai Yongzhi, a gastroenterology and hepatology specialist, as hepatitis B patients get older, that they are naturally more likely to suffer from other chronic diseases, such as. diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, etc. Research carried out by the Chinese University of Hong Kong in the early years showed that it is increasingly common for patients with hepatitis B to have co-morbidities. “For example, nephropathy, diabetes and hypertension are In addition, the combination of antigens and antibodies in some hepatitis B patients produces immune complexes, which can damage the kidneys. too.” Hepatitis B treatment includes entecavir and tenofovir. Two formulations of tenofovir are suitable for use by patients with drug resistance, and hepatitis B patients taking such drugs must have regular blood tests to test kidney function. “If there is a decline in kidney function, doctors will first find out the cause. Common ones are caused by comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. The first priority is to control the conditions comorbid. be changed, or newer drugs may be considered.Tenofovir Alafenamide,TAF).」TAFCompared to the tenofovir fumarate formula, it is more suitable for patients with kidney disease and osteoporosis.

The earlier it is detected, the better it is to control the disease

Dr Lai Yongzhi said: “The earlier the disease is detected, the earlier it is treated, and the greater the chance of controlling the disease. But according to statistics, only30%Hepatitis B patients will continue to develop, and some patients are not even aware that they are infected with the hepatitis B virus. Because the initial symptoms of hepatitis B are not obvious, once the condition is diagnosed , the situation could be very bad. Therefore, regular follow-up and blood tests are very important for hepatitis B patients to prevent complications and cannot be neglected. “

Although hepatitis B cannot be cured, as long as you follow it regularly, doctors can recommend when necessary drug treatment based on the situation, and it is not difficult to control the situation. Dr. Lai Yongzhi stressed that hepatitis B and its complications can be silent and colorless, without warning signs before they start, hepatitis B patients must communicate well with their doctors them together with your doctor; remember to follow up regularly and do appropriate tests and take antiviral drugs according to the doctor’s instructions Do not stop taking antiviral drugs on your own just because your liver function improves until avoid serious problems.