These individuals are commonly called hepatitis B carriers. Signs and Symptoms Hepatitis B is most commonly spread by physical contact with contaminated blood as in the sharing of nonsterilized needles or by sexual relations. Hepatitis can be a cause of liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis slows the blood flow through the liver and causes greatly increased pressure in the portal vein that carries nutrients from the stomach and intestines to the liver. The treatment, given by injection for several months, may have a number of side effects including flu-like symptoms, headache, nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, and thinning of hair.
Some patients experience depression.
The type and severity of side effects differ for each individual. Interferon may interfere with the production of white blood cells and platelets by depressing the bone marrow. Blood tests are needed to monitor blood cells, platelets, and liver enzymes. Some HBV patients with advanced cirrhosis might be considered for a liver transplant. Many new treatments are under investigation.