If hepatitis B is positive

Hepatitis B testing uses different markers. A positive result can reflect current infection, previous exposure, or immunity after vaccination, depending on the marker. It does not by itself tell you how long infection has been present, whether the virus is active, or whether liver damage exists. Further blood tests and clinical review can clarify those questions.

Some people with [Hepatitis B](/conditions/hepatitis-b/) have no symptoms. Feeling well therefore does not settle the interpretation, and a positive result should be reviewed even when you feel normal.

Arrange follow-up with a clinician and take the complete report. Ask which marker is positive, whether repeat or confirmatory testing is needed, and whether liver enzymes, viral activity, or imaging should be assessed. A [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) may help assess how the liver is responding, although it cannot alone define every hepatitis B result.

Until you receive advice, do not share needles, razors, or toothbrushes, and use barrier protection. Household or sexual contacts may need testing and [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/). Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical guidance.

Seek urgent care for confusion, severe vomiting, increasing abdominal swelling, yellow eyes with marked illness, bleeding, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician promptly after a positive result if you are pregnant or have known liver disease. [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/) and [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) can occur for several reasons and should be discussed in context.

Ask: Which marker is positive? Does this indicate current infection, past exposure, or immunity? Do I need repeat blood work or monitoring? Could anyone in my household need testing or vaccination? What symptoms should prompt urgent help?