How long does hepatitis B last?

The course differs between people. An acute infection may cause tiredness, nausea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or no noticeable symptoms. The virus may then leave the body, or it may remain and become chronic hepatitis B. Chronic infection can be quiet for years while inflammation affects the liver, so feeling well does not show whether the virus has gone.

Blood tests help distinguish a recent infection from ongoing infection and can show how the liver is responding. A liver function test is one part of this assessment. A clinician may repeat tests over time because one result cannot describe the whole course.

Arrange a medical appointment if hepatitis B is suspected or a test has been positive. Take previous results and vaccination information if available. Avoid alcohol until a clinician has discussed your liver results, and check before taking medicines or supplements that may affect the liver. Keep follow-up appointments even when symptoms improve.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, severe vomiting, marked yellowing, bleeding, or rapidly worsening illness. Contact a clinician promptly for new dark urine, persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, or yellow eyes. These symptoms have several possible causes, but they warrant assessment.

Ask whether your results suggest acute or chronic infection, which repeat tests are needed, whether your liver needs imaging or specialist review, and how to protect household or sexual contacts.