Live in the same house with someone who has lifelong hepatitis B virus infection. Have sex with a person infected with hepatitis B virus. Have sex with more than one partner. Are a child whose parents were born in Southeast Asia, Africa, the Amazon Basin in South America, the Pacific Islands, or the Middle East. Are a patient or work in an institution for the developmentally disabled.
Symptoms appear two to six months after exposure to the virus.
The beginning of symptoms is usually gradual. The doctor reviews possible exposure to the hepatitis B virus, checks for signs and symptoms, orders liver tests, and rules out other illness. Diagnosis is confirmed by a test for the virus in the blood. Persons with hepatitis B should eat a balanced diet, get plentyof rest, and avoid alcohol and drugs. Since the symptoms vary, medical advice may be different for each patient.