Hepatitis B is one of several types of hepatitis (liver inflammation). Many acute cases of hepatitis B get better on their own, but chronic hepatitis B often requires treatment with medications. Hepatitis B is caused by an infection with the hepatitis B virus. A few symptoms of hepatitis B include nausea, diarrhea, yellowing of the skin or eyes (also known as jaundice), and a low-grade fever. As part of making a hepatitis B diagnosis, the healthcare provider will ask the patient a number of questions and will then perform a physical exam to look for signs and symptoms of the disease. If the healthcare provider suspects hepatitis B, he or she will order certain tests (including tests that look for high levels of liver enzymes or antibodies the body has made against the hepatitis B virus).

 

Treatment options for hepatitis B depend on the type of hepatitis B a person has. For acute hepatitis B, treatment involves supportive care, which consists of treating any symptoms or complications that may occur as a result of the disease. For chronic hepatitis B, however, there are a number of medicines that can help slow down liver damage and possibly prevent complications of hepatitis B. The best way to prevent hepatitis B is through the hepatitis B vaccine.