When the chronic hepatitis B, a long-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Also known as persistent HBV infection, it happens when the immune system can’t clear the virus after six months, leading to ongoing inflammation and potential liver damage. Unlike acute hepatitis B, which often goes away on its own, chronic hepatitis B sticks around—sometimes for life—and quietly increases the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
People with chronic hepatitis B, a long-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Also known as persistent HBV infection, it happens when the immune system can’t clear the virus after six months, leading to ongoing inflammation and potential liver damage. often don’t feel sick at first. That’s why many don’t know they have it until routine blood tests show elevated liver enzymes or a positive HBV DNA test. The virus spreads through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth. It’s not spread by sharing food, hugging, or casual contact. If you’ve had a blood transfusion before 1992, used needles for tattoos or drugs, or had unprotected sex with someone who has HBV, you should get tested. Early detection is the best way to stop damage before it starts.
antiviral treatment, medications that suppress the hepatitis B virus to slow liver damage. Common options include tenofovir and entecavir, which are taken daily and can keep the virus under control for years. These drugs don’t cure the infection, but they reduce viral load, lower inflammation, and cut the risk of serious complications. Not everyone needs treatment right away—doctors watch liver function, viral levels, and scan for scarring before deciding. Lifestyle matters too: avoiding alcohol, staying away from liver-toxic supplements, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis A can protect your liver even more.
Regular monitoring is part of living with chronic hepatitis B, a long-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Also known as persistent HBV infection, it happens when the immune system can’t clear the virus after six months, leading to ongoing inflammation and potential liver damage.. That means yearly or biannual blood work, ultrasound scans for liver cancer, and sometimes a FibroScan to check for scarring. Many people live normal, active lives with proper care. The key is staying consistent with checkups and meds—even when you feel fine.
What you’ll find below are clear, no-fluff comparisons and guides on how medications like antivirals work, how to avoid liver damage from other drugs, how to spot early signs of trouble, and what to ask your doctor. These aren’t theoretical overviews—they’re real, practical tools from people who’ve been there.
Learn proven ways to stop chronic hepatitis B spread, from newborn vaccination to safe‑injection programs, with practical steps for individuals and policymakers.
