Information for the public

Questions to ask about chronic hepatitis B

Finding out what's wrong (diagnosis)

  • Can you tell me more about the tests you've offered me?

  • What do these tests involve?

  • Where will these tests be carried out? Will I need to have them in hospital?

  • How long will I have to wait until I have these tests?

  • How long will it take to get the results of these tests?

About your condition

  • Can you tell me more about chronic hepatitis B?

  • What steps can I take to protect my partner and family members from becoming infected?

  • Would it help my condition if I made some changes to my lifestyle, such as drinking less alcohol or changing my diet?

  • Are there any support organisations in my local area?

  • Can you provide any information for my family or carers?

About tests for liver disease

  • Can you tell me more about the test you've offered me?

  • What does this test involve?

  • Does this test pose any risks for me?

  • How reliable is this test?

  • How long will it take to get the results of this test?

  • How will the results of this test affect what happens next?

Treatments

  • Which treatments are available?

  • Why you have decided to offer me this particular treatment?

  • What are the pros and cons of this treatment?

  • What will it involve?

  • How will it help me? What effect will it have on my symptoms and everyday life? What sort of improvements might I expect?

  • How long will it take to have an effect?

  • Can you tell me about the risks associated with this treatment?

  • Is there some other information (like a leaflet, DVD or a website) about the treatment that I can have?

Side effects

  • What should I do if I get any side effects? (For example, should I call my GP, or go to the emergency department at a hospital?)

  • Are there any long-term effects of taking this treatment?

Following up on your treatment

  • Are there different treatments that I could try?

  • Does the length or dose of my current treatment need to be changed?

For family members, friends or carers

  • What can I do to help and support the person with chronic hepatitis B?

  • Is there any additional support that I might benefit from or be entitled to?

  • Information Standard