How to Live With Hepatitis B

Eating a healthy diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables is advised.

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus. This serious condition can lead to chronic infection, liver cancer, cirrhosis of the liver or liver failure. The disease is spread from one infected person to another, via the exchange of blood or bodily fluids. According to the Mayo Clinic, children with hepatitis B are more likely than adults with the disease to develop a chronic infection, and adults can often fully recover.

Instructions

1. Stop drinking alcohol, as alcohol promotes liver disease.

2. Eat smaller meals to give you energy and avoid nausea. Choose a healthy diet with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and other foods that promote a healthier immune system.

3. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist about which types of over-the-counter medications and prescriptions you should avoid. According to the Mayo Clinic, drugs like Tylenol should not be taken by those with hepatitis B.

4. Get adequate sleep and exercise to increase energy and strength.

5. Consult your doctor about medications that can be prescribed to help you live with or overcome the condition. Drugs prescribed include interferon, telbivudine, entecavir, lamivudine and adefovir dipivoxil.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic on Hepatitis B
• Center for Disease Control on Hepatitis B