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Hepatitis B Guide

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What Is Hepatitis B?

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(continued)

Treatment for chronic hepatitis B depends on whether your infection is getting worse and whether you have liver damage. Most people with chronic hepatitis B can live active, full lives by taking good care of themselves and getting regular checkups. There are medicines for chronic hepatitis B, but they may not be right for everyone. Work with your doctor to decide whether medicine is the right treatment for you.

Sometimes, chronic hepatitis B can lead to severe liver damage. If this happens, you may need a liver transplant.

Can hepatitis B be prevented?

The hepatitis B vaccine is the best way to prevent infection. The vaccine is a series of 3 or 4 shots. Adults at risk and all babies, children, and teenagers should be vaccinated.

A combination vaccine (Twinrix) that protects against both hepatitis B and hepatitis A also is available.

To avoid getting or spreading the virus to others:

Use a condom when you have sex.
Do not share needles.
Wear latex or plastic gloves if you have to touch blood.
Do not share toothbrushes or razors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning about hepatitis B:	What is hepatitis B? What causes hepatitis B? What are the symptoms of hepatitis B? How is hepatitis B spread? What increases my risk for hepatitis B? How can I prevent hepatitis B? Is there a vaccine for hepatitis B? (What is a PDF document?) Who is affected by hepatitis B?
Being diagnosed:	When should I see a doctor? How is hepatitis B diagnosed? Should I be tested for hepatitis B and C?
Getting treatment:	How is hepatitis B treated? What medicines are used to treat hepatitis B? Should I take medicine for hepatitis B? Do I need a liver transplant?
Living with:	What can I do at home for hepatitis B? Am I at risk for liver cancer?

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WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 11, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.