Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, in some cases, you may be referred immediately to a specialist. Doctors who specialize in treating hepatitis B include:

• Doctors who treat digestive diseases (gastroenterologists)
• Doctors who treat liver diseases (hepatologists)
• Doctors who treat infectious diseases

What you can do

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

• Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions. When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet.
• Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
• Write down key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements you take.
• Consider taking a family member or friend along. Someone who accompanies you may help you remember the information you receive.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Listing questions for your doctor can help you make the most of your time together. For hepatitis B infection, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
• Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes for my symptoms or condition?
• What tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?
• Has hepatitis B damaged my liver or caused other complications, such as kidney problems?
• What is the best course of action?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there restrictions that I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?
• Should my family be tested for hepatitis B?
• How can I protect people around me from hepatitis B?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, including:

• When did your symptoms begin?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
• Have you ever had a blood transfusion?
• Do you inject drugs?
• Have you had unprotected sex?
• How many sexual partners have you had?
• Have you been diagnosed with hepatitis?