Can hepatitis B be treated?

Care depends on whether the infection is new or ongoing, how active the virus is, and whether the liver shows inflammation or scarring. A new infection may need rest, fluids, and symptom relief while a clinician watches for liver problems. Ongoing infection may call for antiviral medicine and regular reviews. Treatment decisions are based on blood tests and liver assessment, not on one symptom alone. Some people notice [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) or [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/), while others feel well.

Take prescribed medicine at the agreed time and discuss side effects before stopping it. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, kidney problems, alcohol use, and every medicine or supplement you take. Keep scheduled blood tests, including a possible [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/), because results guide follow-up. Partners and household contacts should ask about [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/).

Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, severe vomiting, new yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal swelling, or unusual bleeding. Contact your care team if tiredness suddenly worsens or you cannot keep medicine down. These changes can signal a liver problem and need assessment rather than home treatment alone.

What type of hepatitis B do I have? Is treatment needed now? Which results will show whether it is working? How often will my liver be checked, and what should my partner do?