I too was diagnosed after giving blood. I see a gastroenterologist in my area the end of this month and am anxious to learn more about my numbers, viral load, health of my liver. I am also looking at every physical ailment and wondering if it is from the hep B. I am currently suffering from a blind spot in my vision, just off the center, making reading fine print difficult. I’m hoping it’s just a floater but with hep B, who knows?
I’m 63. I worked in dental hygiene from 1979 to around 2005. I had two sharps injuries during that time. But, also, keep in mind that prior to HIV in the early 80s we did not wear gloves! Hard to believe now, but, yeah, naked fingers in bloody mouths all day long. I don’t know how prevalent hep B was from the late 70s to early 80s but thinking it possible I could have been exposed then. I’m hoping my numbers might indicate how long I’ve had it.
I was also wondering when blood donation organizations began testing for hep B and then when they began informing donators of their findings? I gave blood for many years without issue prior to 2005. Around that time I did receive a letter after a donation saying my blood was unacceptable but did not state why. I got busy with life and didn’t ever attempt to give again until the recent donation. Now I’m wondering if the 2005 letter was regarding a hep B positivity.
So many questions constantly floating around in my mind…
I’m new to this forum and am learning so very much. I’m so impressed with the knowledge of the frequent contributors.
Thank you in advance for welcoming me.