However, some people will show symptoms. These symptoms are similar to a stomach virus. Symptoms may not appear for up to six months after exposure. Some people become very ill quickly after infection. A diagnosis must be made by a physician.
Testing requires that a small sample of blood be taken.
There is no cure. Treatment includes rest, combined with a high protein diet to repair damaged cells and a high carbohydrate diet to protect the liver. Some infected persons are treated with Alpha Interferon. Hepatitis B is dangerous because it invades the cells of the liver. The liver is necessary for many major body functions including digestion, production of bile, energy storage, and clearing the body of toxic substances.