What to Do If You Test Positive for Hepatitis B in School?

Hepatitis B

During a school health examination, it was discovered that I am infected with hepatitis B.
HBeAg is positive.
Please advise me on what to do.
Thank you!

Sho, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/22

Dr. Yang Guojun reply Internal Medicine

The presence of e-antigen positivity indicates that the virus is replicating quite actively, resulting in high infectivity.
Conversely, e-antibody positivity suggests that the viral activity has significantly decreased, and the infectivity is lower (although it is still infectious).
To assess the severity of your liver disease, additional tests such as GOT, GPT, and ultrasound examinations are necessary.
Please have an ultrasound check every six months.
Additionally, this condition may be a result of vertical transmission from mother to child, so it is advisable for your mother to undergo testing as well.
This is the response from Dr.
Yang Guojun, a specialist in gastroenterology and hepatology.

Reply Date: 2000/11/22

More Info

If you test positive for Hepatitis B during a school health check, particularly with a positive HBeAg result, it is essential to take several steps to manage your health and prevent transmission to others. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do next:

Understanding Your Results
1. HBeAg Positive: The presence of Hepatitis B e Antigen (HBeAg) indicates that the virus is actively replicating in your body. This means that you are likely to be infectious, which is a critical factor in managing your health and the health of those around you.

2. Further Testing: It is crucial to undergo additional tests to assess the severity of your liver disease. These tests typically include:
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs): This includes measuring levels of enzymes such as ALT (GPT) and AST (GOT) to evaluate liver inflammation and damage.

- Ultrasound: A liver ultrasound can help assess the condition of your liver and check for any signs of cirrhosis or liver cancer.

- HBeAb Testing: Testing for Hepatitis B e Antibody (HBeAb) can provide insight into whether your body is starting to control the virus.

Medical Consultation
3. Consult a Hepatologist: It is advisable to see a specialist in liver diseases (hepatologist) for a thorough evaluation. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation, including the need for antiviral therapy.

4. Regular Monitoring: If you are diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis B, regular monitoring is essential. This typically involves follow-up blood tests every six months to track your liver function and viral load.

Lifestyle and Precautions
5. Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications: Alcohol can exacerbate liver damage, so it is crucial to avoid it. Additionally, some medications can be harmful to the liver, so always consult your healthcare provider before taking any new medications.

6. Healthy Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise can help support liver health. Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while avoiding processed foods high in sugar and fat.

7. Preventing Transmission: Since you are infectious, it is vital to take precautions to prevent spreading the virus to others. This includes:
- Avoiding sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes.

- Practicing safe sex by using condoms.

- Informing close contacts about your condition so they can get tested and vaccinated if necessary.

Vaccination and Family Health
8. Vaccination for Family Members: Hepatitis B is highly contagious, and family members or close contacts should be tested and vaccinated if they are not already immune. The Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection.

9. Mental Health Support: Receiving a positive diagnosis can be overwhelming and may lead to anxiety or depression. Consider seeking support from mental health professionals or support groups for individuals with chronic illnesses.

Conclusion
Testing positive for Hepatitis B, especially with a positive HBeAg, requires careful management and proactive steps to protect your health and the health of others. Regular medical follow-ups, lifestyle adjustments, and preventive measures are essential components of living with Hepatitis B. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this diagnosis.

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