Hepatitis B + C

If you have liver inflammation caused by hepatitis B or C, the experts at the Texas Infectious Disease Institute in Richardson, Texas, are here to help. Double-board-certified internal medicine and infectious disease specialist Serge Lartchenko, MD, and his experienced team offer treatments for these conditions to reduce symptoms and the chance of severe compilations. Call the office today to schedule an appointment, or use the online booking tool.

What are hepatitis B and C?

Hepatitis means “liver inflammation.” Common causes include autoimmune disorders, alcoholism, and viral infections. Seeking treatment for hepatitis B and C at the Texas Infectious Disease Institute offers highly effective outcomes, even for the most complex cases.

Of the many forms of hepatitis, hepatitis B and C are the most serious. They are the most likely to develop into an ongoing illness.

Hepatitis A and E are nearly always acute (short-lived) infections, meaning your body can usually clear them on its own.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B and C?

The symptoms you might have due to hepatitis B or C include:

• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Dark urine
• Joint pain
• Reduced appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Yellowed eyes or skin

Seek treatment at the first sign of these or other unusual symptoms to get the prompt treatment needed to avoid complications.

What are the risk factors for Hepatitis B and C?

Hepatitis B and C have common risk factors, including:

• Shared needles
• Intravenous drug use
• Being sexually active with an infected partner
• Having several sexual partners
• Receiving medical treatment in another country

When left untreated, hepatitis can cause liver scarring and eventually the need for a liver transplant after contributing to liver failure or liver cancer.

What are the differences between hepatitis B and C?

Hepatitis B and C are both common liver infections, with hepatitis C being the most common liver infection in the United States and worldwide. Hepatitis C cure rates are 96-98%. Hepatitis B is less common and has a vaccine to prevent it. But chronic hepatitis B is more difficult to cure.

How does my provider diagnose hepatitis B and C?

The Texas Infectious Disease Institute team can diagnose your condition after discussing your medical history and symptoms. In some cases, they complete a physical exam and order bloodwork and a liver biopsy or imaging procedure.

How is hepatitis treated?

Acute (short-lived) hepatitis B can go away without treatment. Chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C will require antiviral medicines, injections, or a liver transplant. It’s also necessary to stop drinking alcohol, avoid medication that can cause liver damage, and adopt other healthy habits.

Follow up with the Texas Infectious Disease Institute team as needed throughout your treatment.

Schedule an appointment at the Texas Infectious Disease Institute today by phone or online to be screened or treated for hepatitis B and C.