Hepatitis B blood test

Overview

Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause a liver infection. A blood test checks for signs of the virus or antibodies your body makes to fight it.

Hepatitis B is less common in the UK but more common in parts of Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. About 1 in 100 people in the UK have had it.

Anyone can get hepatitis B, but people who travel to high-risk areas, have unprotected sex, share needles, or have certain medical procedures are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• feeling very tired
• flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches and fever
• loss of appetite
• nausea and vomiting
• abdominal pain
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• dark urine
• pale stools

Symptoms in children

• Many children with hepatitis B have no symptoms.
• If symptoms occur, they may be mild, like tiredness or poor appetite.
• Some children may develop jaundice.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have more severe symptoms.
• They are more likely to develop chronic infection.
• Symptoms may include severe fatigue, confusion, or swelling in the legs and abdomen (from liver damage).

Causes

Main causes

• Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).
• It spreads through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids.
• Common ways include: sharing needles, unprotected sex, from mother to baby during childbirth, or through contaminated medical equipment.

Risk factors

• Living in or traveling to regions with high rates of hepatitis B
• Injecting drugs and sharing equipment
• Having unprotected sex with multiple partners
• Being born to a mother with hepatitis B
• Working in healthcare with exposure to blood
• Receiving blood transfusions or organ transplants before widespread screening

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you think you have been exposed to hepatitis B, see a doctor right away (within 24 hours) for possible preventive treatment.
• If you have jaundice or severe vomiting.
• If you have signs of bleeding or confusion.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have risk factors and have never been tested.
• If you have ongoing symptoms like tiredness or abdominal pain.
• If you need a check-up for work or travel.

Diagnosis

A simple blood test can detect hepatitis B. The test looks for parts of the virus (antigens) and antibodies your body makes. Different results tell if you have a current infection, a past infection, or protection from vaccination.

Tests that may be done

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) — to check for current infection
• Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) — to check for immunity
• Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) — to check for past infection
• Liver function tests — to see how your liver is working
• Viral load test — to measure the amount of virus in your blood (for chronic cases)

What to expect at your appointment

The test is a quick blood draw from your arm. You do not need to fast or prepare specially. Results may take a few days. Your doctor will explain what they mean and what to do next.

Treatment

Treatment depends on whether the infection is acute or chronic. Acute hepatitis B often goes away on its own with rest and good nutrition. Chronic hepatitis B may need antiviral medicines to keep the virus under control and protect your liver.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink enough fluids
• Eat a healthy diet
• Avoid alcohol completely
• Avoid any medicines that can harm the liver (check with your doctor or pharmacist)
• Practice good hygiene to avoid spreading to others

Medical treatments

For chronic hepatitis B, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications to reduce the virus level. These are taken long-term and require regular blood tests. In some cases, a liver transplant may be considered if liver damage is severe. Do not take over-the-counter painkillers or herbal remedies without consulting your doctor, as some can harm the liver.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a treatment for hepatitis B itself. If you develop severe liver damage (cirrhosis) or liver cancer from chronic hepatitis B, you may need a liver transplant. This is a major operation and only done after careful evaluation.

Living with this condition

If you have chronic hepatitis B, you can live a normal life by taking your medicines as prescribed, attending regular check-ups, and protecting your liver. You should avoid alcohol and check with your doctor before taking any new medicines.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid alcohol completely
• Eat a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly as your energy allows
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and other liver infections
• Practice safe sex to protect partners
• Do not share personal items like toothbrushes or razors

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet low in fat and rich in nutrients helps support liver function. Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish. Stay active with moderate exercise like walking or swimming, but rest when tired.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a chronic infection can cause anxiety or depression. It's normal to feel worried. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor. Support groups can also help you connect with others.

Prevention

Yes, hepatitis B can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. It is also important to avoid risky behaviors like sharing needles or unprotected sex.

Vaccines

The hepatitis B vaccine is given as a series of shots. It is recommended for all infants, healthcare workers, people with chronic liver disease, travelers to high-risk areas, and others at risk. Talk to your doctor if you think you need it.

Screening programmes

Blood tests can screen for hepatitis B. If you are at risk, your doctor may recommend a test. Pregnant women are routinely tested in the UK to prevent passing the virus to the baby.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious liver damage (cirrhosis).
• It increases the risk of liver cancer.
• It can cause liver failure, which may require a transplant.
• It can spread to other people.

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment and monitoring, most people with chronic hepatitis B can lead long, healthy lives. Acute hepatitis B often resolves completely. Early detection and care give the best chance of protecting your liver.

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