How do I manage my hepatitis B?
People with chronic HBV infection can live completely normal lives as long as they are screened regularly for liver damage and cancer. Ask your physician for the following tests:
Every | Test | Screens for |
6 months
|
ALT (alanine transaminase) blood test
AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) blood test |
Liver damage
Liver cancer |
1 year*
|
Ultrasound
|
Liver cancer
|
*If you have cirrhosis or a family history of liver cancer, increase the frequency of your ultrasound screening to every 6 months.
Early detection and treatment will increase your chance of long-term survival. See the treatment section to read more.
Additionally:
- Avoid drinking alcohol because alcohol may accelerate the progression of liver damage
- Get the hepatitis A vaccine to reduce the risk of further liver damage
- Talk to your doctor before taking any prescriptions, over-the-counter medication, or herbal remedies
- Ensure that all members of your household and sexual contacts are tested and vaccinated if they are unprotected
- Do not share toothbrushes or razors, cover wounds, and use condoms to prevent transmission to others
- Do not donate blood, organs, tissue, or semen