Hepatology is a specialized study of medicine of the gallbladder, liver, pancreas and biliary tree. Diseases and disorders associated with these vital organs are generally referred to a hepatologist in New Jersey for treatment and management. In past years, if individuals developed a disorder related to these organs, they were referred to a gastroenterologist for treatment. Today, doctors specialize in specific diseases and disorders of these organs. Individuals who are diagnosed with viral hepatitis are usually sent to a hepatology specialist. With over 2 billion people who have become infected with the hepatitis B virus and about 350 million individuals who are carriers of this disease, having doctors who are experts in hepatology in New Jersey offers individuals with this disease the best possible care.

Hepatitis B is a severe infection of the liver, which is caused by a virus. Most adults who become infected with this disorder fully recover, even in severe cases. Children and infants who become infected with this virus have a more difficult recovery, which often causes the disease to become chronic. There is no cure for hepatitis B although there are certain precautions that can help prevent the spreading of this disease. There is also a vaccine that can prevent this disease. Hepatitis B is transmitted through semen, body fluids and blood. If this virus finds its way into the liver, it begins to enter the liver cells and then starts multiplying. When this occurs, the liver becomes inflamed and signs and symptoms of this infection begin. It usually takes 2 to 3 months after contracting the virus before symptoms occur. Common symptoms of hepatitis B include dark urine, nausea and vomiting, weakness, abdominal pain, joint pain, loss of appetite and yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin. When children are infected with this virus, typically there are no symptoms. This is sometimes true in adults also.

The most common ways that hepatitis B is transmitted is through sexual contact with an infected person, accidental needle sticks, which are a major concern with healthcare workers, sharing needles and pregnant mothers who carry the virus and pass it to the child during childbirth. To lower the risks of contracting this serious disease there are certain precautions that can be taken. If traveling to a country where this disorder is high, talk to a physician about getting the vaccine. Never share needles and if getting a tattoo or a body piercing, make sure the shop is a reputable one. Always use protection when having sexual contact with someone. Although this can help prevent transmitting and contracting the virus, it does not completely eliminate the risk.