|
 When people with chronic hepatitis B experience liver complications, or are identified as being at risk for liver problems, it is often necessary to use drugs to control the virus. Even if you don't feel sick, it is important to get treatment if your doctor recommends it. Early treatment can help you stay well longer.
Your healthcare provider will rely on the results of laboratory tests and other types of examinations to determine whether or not you are at risk of liver complications and when drugs should be used. Currently, there are two types of medications available for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B — antiviral drugs and interferon. These drugs are not a cure, but they have been proven to effectively combat the virus.
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
One of the best things you can do — whether you are taking medication or not — is to take care of yourself. If you are diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B, here are a few things you can do to live better and longer:
- Eat right
- Get enough rest
- Avoid alcohol, drugs and herbal medicines, all of which can harm your liver
- See your doctor every 6-12 months to monitor your liver function and test for evidence of liver cancer
|
|
|
|
If you test negative for hepatitis B, there is a vaccine that provides an easy and effective method for preventing HBV infection and its deadly implications — including liver cancer and liver failure. If you are diagnosed with hepatitis B, whether acute or chronic, these are some precautions you should immediately take to protect others:
- Make sure that all household members and sex partners get tested for and vaccinated against hepatitis B
- Practice safe sex (if used correctly, condoms can reduce the risk of infection)
- Do not share needles or personal items such as shaving razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers or washcloths
- Do not donate blood, body organs, tissue or sperm
- If you are an expectant mother, make sure your baby gets the hepatitis B vaccine
Your doctor can also give you advice on preventing the spread of hepatitis B and getting treated. To get a list of some helpful questions to ask your doctor, click here.
Patients should be aware of
Important Safety Information about Hepsera and may read additional
patient information.
It is important that you discuss your
treatment options and any questions that you may have with your healthcare
provider.
|