{"id":47077,"date":"2025-12-03T16:46:17","date_gmt":"2025-12-03T16:46:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mediconanet.pt\/?post_type=product&#038;p=47077"},"modified":"2026-02-18T12:22:18","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T12:22:18","slug":"hepatitis-b","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/produto\/hepatite-b\/","title":{"rendered":"Hepatite B &#8211; Diagn\u00f3stico"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suspect Hepatitis B? Consult a doctor online in complete privacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0The doctor assesses your case, indicates the appropriate analyses and, if confirmed, the right treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Sintomas mais comuns<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent fatigue or tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea or loss of appetite<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dark urine and light faeces<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal pain (liver area)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>What is Hepatitis B?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>Hepatitis B<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a <\/span><b>viral infection of the liver<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> caused by <\/span><b>hepatitis B virus (HBV)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can cause acute or chronic inflammation. It is a <\/span><b>sexually transmitted infection (STI)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and can also be transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The virus affects the liver cells (hepatocytes) and can cause <\/span><b>progressive liver damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Without proper monitoring and treatment, chronic infection can develop into <\/span><b>cirrhosis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><b>liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HBV is transmitted mainly through <\/span><b>unprotected sexual contact<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with an infected person, <\/span><b>sharing syringes, blades or sharp objects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> contaminated, <\/span><b>mother-to-child transmission<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during labour, or in rarer cases, <\/span><b>transfusions of contaminated blood<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the biggest challenges with hepatitis B is that <\/span><b>many infected people have no symptoms in the early stages<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. When they appear, the most common signs include <\/span><b>fatigue, slight fever, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The infection may remain <\/span><b>asymptomatic for years<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while the virus continues to cause inflammation and silent liver damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without diagnosis and medical follow-up, chronic hepatitis B can develop into <\/span><b>liver failure<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>cirrhosis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>liver cancer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. However, with proper treatment and regular monitoring, it is possible to <\/span><b>control the virus and avoid complications<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With advances in medicine, the <\/span><b>hepatitis B is treatable and manageable<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The <\/span><b>antiviral medicines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>liver function monitoring<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> reduce the multiplication of the virus, protect the liver and prevent the progression of the disease. In addition, there is a <\/span><b>highly effective vaccine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which prevents infection and is recommended for the entire population.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early diagnosis and regular medical follow-up are essential to ensure a healthy life. <\/span><b>long and healthy life<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, to reduce the risk of transmission and avoid liver complications.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Symptoms of Hepatitis B <\/b><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The symptoms of Hepatitis B vary from person to person and depend on the stage of infection and the body's immune response. Many infected people, especially in the early stages, have no visible symptoms, which makes early diagnosis difficult and favours the transmission of the virus.<\/span><\/h4>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When present, signs can appear weeks or months after exposure to the virus and are divided into two main phases:<\/span><\/h4>\n<h4><b>Acute phase (1 to 4 months after infection)<\/b><\/h4>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At this stage, the virus begins to multiply in the liver and can cause symptoms similar to those of the flu or a gastrointestinal infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common symptoms include<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue or intense tiredness<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mild fever or feeling unwell<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea and vomiting<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of appetite<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal pain, especially on the right side (liver area)<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dark urine (tea or cola colour)<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clear or whitish faeces<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yellow skin and eyes (jaundice)<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle or joint pain<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These symptoms can last for weeks to months, disappearing as the body eliminates the virus. However, in some cases, the infection becomes chronic.<\/span><\/h4>\n<h4><b>Chronic phase (persistent)<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the immune system is unable to eliminate the virus, it remains active in the liver, causing continuous inflammation. At this stage, many patients remain asymptomatic, but the virus continues to cause progressive damage and can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis or liver cancer.<\/span><\/h4>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs that can appear in more advanced stages include:<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent fatigue<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic abdominal pain<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal swelling (ascites)<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unintentional weight loss<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recurrent jaundice<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><b>The absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of infection, so screening is essential, especially in people with risky behaviour or contact with infected blood and body fluids.<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><b>Causes of Hepatitis B <\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>Hepatitis B<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is caused by <\/span><b>hepatitis B virus (HBV)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, transmitted through the <\/span><b>contact with infected blood or body fluids<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as <\/span><b>semen, vaginal secretions and saliva<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (to a lesser degree). Transmission occurs when these fluids come into contact with <\/span><b>mucous membranes or small skin lesions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or are injected directly into the bloodstream.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main forms of hepatitis B transmission include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal or oral)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with an infected person;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sharing syringes, needles or other sharp materials<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (such as blades, pliers or toothbrushes);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Transmission from mother to baby<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during labour (vertical transmission);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Transfusions of contaminated blood<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (nowadays very rare due to the rigorous screening of blood banks);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tattoos or piercings<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> made with non-sterilised material.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike other infections, hepatitis B <\/span><b>not transmitted through casual contact<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hugs, kisses or sharing utensils;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coughing, sneezing or contact with tears and sweat;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sharing cutlery, glasses, toilets or swimming pools.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infection almost always occurs through <\/span><b>direct contact with infected blood or body fluids<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where <\/span><b>use of condoms and sterilised material<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the most effective forms of prevention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other important prevention measures include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hepatitis B vaccination<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, available and highly effective;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Correct and consistent condom use<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in all sexual relations;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Avoid sharing personal belongings<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that may contain traces of blood (such as blades, needles or pliers);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ensure hygiene and sterilisation conditions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in aesthetic, medical or dental procedures;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Regular screening for hepatitis B and other STIs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in sexually active people.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>How do we diagnose Hepatitis B? <\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diagnosis of <\/span><b>Hepatitis B<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is done through <\/span><b>specific laboratory tests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that detect the presence of <\/span><b>antibodies and antigens<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of the virus in the blood. These tests make it possible to identify infection in both the early and chronic stages, even in the absence of symptoms, guaranteeing early diagnosis and timely treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The process is organised to ensure <\/span><b>clinical rigour, security and total confidentiality:<\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b> First online consultation:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of our doctors will assess your symptoms, medical history and possible risk exposures (such as unprotected sex, contact with infected blood or sharing sharp objects).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the basis of this assessment, the doctor may recommend carrying out <\/span><b>specific laboratory analyses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to confirm or exclude hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The most common tests include:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Surface antigen (HBsAg) test:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> confirms the presence of the active virus in the blood;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Testing for anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> assesses whether the person has had previous contact with the virus or is immunised;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Viral load test (HBV-DNA by PCR):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> quantifies the virus and makes it possible to assess the degree of infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><b> Carrying out the analyses:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The patient goes to the laboratory of their choice to have blood taken.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is not compulsory to carry out the test in a specific laboratory, as long as the following are used <\/span><b>validated methods for HBV detection<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Receipt of results:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As soon as the laboratory makes the results available, they are sent in the form of <\/span><b>digital and secure<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> directly to the patient and <\/span><b>Doctor on the Net<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b> Second consultation (if necessary):<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If the test confirms the presence of the hepatitis B virus, the patient has a new online medical consultation.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> At this stage, the doctor:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explain the result and its clinical significance;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It assesses the state of the liver and the need for antiviral treatment;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescribe <\/span><b>complementary examinations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as <\/span><b>liver function (ALT, AST)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>abdominal ultrasound<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clarifies doubts about prognosis and prevention measures;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Define the medical follow-up plan to monitor progress and prevent complications.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This process guarantees <\/span><b>fast, secure and confidential diagnosis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with continuous medical monitoring and personalised guidance.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early screening for hepatitis B is essential in order to avoid liver complications and ensure a healthy life. <\/span><b>healthy and controlled life<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Asymptomatic infections: the invisible risk of Hepatitis B\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most worrying characteristics of <\/span><b>Hepatitis B<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is that <\/span><b>many infected people have no symptoms<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for months or even years.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even without visible signs, the virus can remain active in the liver, causing chronic inflammation and progressive damage to liver cells.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The absence of symptoms <\/span><b>does not mean that the virus has disappeared<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The hepatitis B virus can remain <\/span><b>latent in the organism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, It continues to multiply silently and causes damage to the liver over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even when it doesn't cause any apparent symptoms, Hepatitis B can evolve discreetly and lead to complications:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent liver inflammation and increased liver enzymes (ALT and AST)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Liver fibrosis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can evolve into <\/span><b>cirrhosis<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Increased risk of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Chronic tiredness and general malaise<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in more advanced stages<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Continuous transmission of the virus<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sexual partners or contacts with infected blood<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hepatitis B can remain <\/span><b>active or latent<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for long periods of time, acting as a silent but progressive infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That's why <\/span><b>regular screening<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>specialised medical care<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are essential for identifying the infection early on and starting appropriate treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With <\/span><b>antiviral therapy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, It is possible to control the virus, protect the liver and reduce the risk of serious complications.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, vaccination and prevention measures make it possible to avoid new infections and stop transmission.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuous medical monitoring and early diagnosis are fundamental to guaranteeing a healthy life. <\/span><b>long and healthy life<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, This reduces the risk of cirrhosis, liver cancer and other complications associated with Hepatitis B.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>How HIV counselling works <\/b><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Book your appointment online:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choose the day and time of your video appointment from the calendar and fill in the initial medical form with your health information and any risk exposures.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Make the payment:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conclua o pagamento de forma simples e segura \u2014 consulta m\u00e9dica 35 \u20ac.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Personalised medical assessment:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During the consultation, the doctor analyses the symptoms, clinical history and possible risk factors (such as contact with infected blood, unprotected sex or sharing sharp objects).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If necessary, it recommends specific analyses, such as<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ol>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surface antigen test (HBsAg): confirms the presence of the active virus in the blood;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Testing for anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies: determines whether the patient has had previous contact with the virus or is immunised;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viral load test (HBV-DNA by PCR): measures the amount of virus in the blood and assesses the activity of the infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Monitoring and treatment:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the result confirms infection with the hepatitis B virus, the doctor will carry out a second online medical consultation to explain the results, clarify any doubts and define the most appropriate treatment plan.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treatment can include antiviral medication and periodic monitoring of liver function (ALT, AST) and viral load, ensuring control of the virus and prevention of liver complications.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This process ensures a quick, safe and confidential diagnosis, with ongoing medical monitoring and personalised guidance.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early diagnosis is essential to protect the liver and ensure a healthy, controlled life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>FAQ's\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>What is Hepatitis B?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hepatitis B is a viral infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The virus affects liver cells (hepatocytes) and can cause acute or chronic inflammation, which can develop, without follow-up, into cirrhosis or liver cancer.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can also be transmitted by contaminated blood or from mother to child during labour.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With proper treatment and medical supervision, it is possible to control the virus, protect the liver and live healthily.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Can I have Hepatitis B without showing symptoms?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Many people with Hepatitis B don't show symptoms in the early stages.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The virus can remain latent and active in the liver for years, causing silent inflammation and progressive damage.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The absence of symptoms does not mean that the virus has disappeared - only that the infection is progressing asymptomatically.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What are the most common symptoms of Hepatitis B?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the infection.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Acute phase (1 to 4 months after exposure):<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue or intense tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mild fever or general malaise<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal pain (especially on the right side)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dark urine and light faeces<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yellow skin and eyes (jaundice)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Chronic (persistent) phase:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constant fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mild abdominal pain or discomfort<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recurrent jaundice<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unintentional weight loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal swelling (ascites, in advanced stages)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In many cases, hepatitis B occurs without visible symptoms, so laboratory screening is essential.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>How does remote Hepatitis B screening work?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> After booking an appointment online and filling in the medical questionnaire, the doctor will assess your case and may recommend specific laboratory analyses such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surface antigen (HBsAg) confirms the presence of the active virus;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies indicate previous contact or immunity;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viral load test (HBV-DNA) measures the amount of virus in the blood.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The analyses can be carried out in the laboratory of your choice, as long as it uses validated methods for detecting HBV.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Is the screening confidential?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. All clinical data and results are treated with total confidentiality, in accordance with the GDPR and health data protection regulations.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical information is not shared with third parties without your explicit consent.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What happens if you test positive for Hepatitis B?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the test confirms the infection, the doctor will make a second online appointment for you:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explain the result and its clinical significance;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assess the state of the liver and the need for antiviral treatment;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescribe complementary tests (liver function, ultrasound or viral load);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Define a plan for regular follow-up and prevention of complications.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Is Hepatitis B curable?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most adults with acute hepatitis B eliminate the virus naturally within six months.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, in some cases, the infection becomes chronic.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although there is no definitive cure, modern antivirals make it possible to control the replication of the virus, protect the liver and reduce the risk of cirrhosis or cancer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Do I need to inform my sexual partners?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. It is important to inform sexual partners and people with whom you may have shared sharp objects.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The doctor can advise you on how to communicate safely and on the importance of vaccinating close contacts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Do I need to repeat the Hepatitis B test?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, your doctor may recommend regular screening, especially for sexually active people, health professionals or those who come into frequent contact with blood.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People at risk should be tested annually;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic patients should be monitored every 6 to 12 months.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>What if I have alarm bells?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you experience intense jaundice, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, mental confusion, abdominal swelling or bleeding, you should seek emergency medical attention.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Teleconsultation is not a substitute for face-to-face care in serious situations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Equipa m\u00e9dica :\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr Igor Faria<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr Mafalda Morais<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr Jo\u00e3o Rebelo de Sousa<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Suspeita de Hepatite B? Consulte um m\u00e9dico online com total privacidade. \u00a0O m\u00e9dico avalia o seu caso, indica as an\u00e1lises adequadas e, se confirmado, o tratamento certo. Sintomas mais comuns Fadiga ou cansa\u00e7o persistente N\u00e1useas ou perda de apetite Urina escura e fezes claras Icter\u00edcia (pele e olhos amarelados) Dor abdominal (regi\u00e3o do f\u00edgado) O [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":36378,"template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[195,64],"product_tag":[202,196],"class_list":{"0":"post-47077","1":"product","2":"type-product","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"product_cat-ist","7":"product_cat-saude-sexual","8":"product_tag-hepatite-b","9":"product_tag-ist","11":"first","12":"instock","13":"shipping-taxable","14":"purchasable","15":"product-type-simple"},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product\/47077","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/product"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/36378"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=47077"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"product_brand","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_brand?post=47077"},{"taxonomy":"product_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_cat?post=47077"},{"taxonomy":"product_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_tag?post=47077"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}