Hepatitis D

Overview

This viral infection affects the liver. The virus that causes hepatitis D only infects you if you also have hepatitis B. If you get both infections at the same time, you may get better with no lasting harm. But when you have a chronic hepatitis B infection and then get hepatitis D, this is serious. It may lead to permanent liver damage.

Causes

The virus that causes hepatitis D lives in blood, semen and other bodily fluids. It spreads through sex and shared needles. In rare cases, it spreads from a mother to her child during birth.

Symptoms

Symptoms include fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Your abdomen may hurt. You may lose your appetite. You may have fever, weakness and joint pain. Your urine may be dark. Your stools may be clay-colored. And, your eyes and skin may look yellowish. A chronic infection can lead to serious complications. You can have cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.

Treatment

Hepatitis D is treated with medications to fight the virus. You may need medications to fight the hepatitis B, too. And, you may need treatment for your complications. Your doctor will create a care plan that's right for you.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.