What should you know about hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that can inflame the liver. Some people have no noticeable symptoms, while others develop tiredness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Blood tests look for different markers: some suggest current infection, some show previous exposure, and others indicate immunity. A single positive or negative marker is not enough to explain the whole picture.

Your clinician may combine hepatitis B markers with a liver function test and, when needed, tests that measure viral activity. This helps clarify whether infection is recent or long-standing and whether the liver needs closer monitoring. Hepatitis B can be present without symptoms, so a normal-feeling day does not replace testing when screening or follow-up has been advised. The infection can spread through infected blood and certain body fluids, including during sex or from a mother to her baby.

Review the exact test names and results with a clinician rather than trying to interpret one marker alone. Attend recommended liver checks and take prescribed treatment as directed. Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, or needles, and use protection during sex until a clinician confirms the appropriate precautions. Household and sexual contacts may need testing and vaccination. Do not donate blood until you have received medical advice. Limit alcohol because it can add stress to the liver, and tell clinicians about all medicines and supplements.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, vomiting blood, severe abdominal swelling, fainting, or rapidly worsening yellow skin or eyes. Arrange prompt advice for dark urine, persistent vomiting, unusual sleepiness, or severe right-sided abdominal pain. Anyone with a positive test, recent exposure, or pregnancy should arrange timely clinical review even without symptoms.

Which hepatitis B markers were tested, and what does each result show? Do I need a liver function test or repeat testing? Should my household or sexual contacts be tested or vaccinated? What precautions apply at home, work, and during pregnancy?