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Hepatitis B
At GastroDoxs, Dr. Scott provides comprehensive, world-class expert hepatitis B care right in Houston. Combining vaccination, precise blood testing, antiviral treatment and advanced liver imaging, our compassionate, board-certified team delivers personalized, cutting-edge support to protect and preserve your liver health.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Hepatitis B?
Viral infection that targets the liver
Can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term)
Body produces surface antibodies to fight the virus
Vaccine available-protection lasts 20+ years in most people
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Exposure to infected blood or body fluids
Unprotected sex with an infected partner
Sharing needles or personal items (razors, toothbrushes)
Being born to a mother with hepatitis B
Signs and Symptoms
Early: fatigue, loss of appetite, mild fever
Later: yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain
Some people remain asymptomatic yet can still transmit the virus
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Hepatitis B?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain (onset, duration, triggers), alcohol use, medication history, travel or exposure risks, and vaccination status.
Blood Tests
We check liver enzymes (ALT, AST, bilirubin), hepatitis B markers (HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc), and rule out pancreatitis with amylase and lipase.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound evaluates liver texture, gallbladder stones, and biliary tract for pain sources.
FibroScan (elastography) measures liver stiffness and fibrosis stage.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In select cases, a liver biopsy or endoscopic ultrasound helps confirm inflammation, assess fibrosis, or exclude other causes of epigastric pain.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hepatitis B.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Limit or avoid alcohol to protect your liver
Stay active with light exercise like walking or swimming
2. Medications
Antiviral therapies (e.g., tenofovir, entecavir) to suppress viral replication
Regular monitoring of liver enzymes and viral load per AASLD guidelines
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
FibroScan for non-invasive assessment of liver stiffness
Ultrasound or MRI for detailed liver imaging
Access to clinical trials exploring new hepatitis B treatments
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need the hepatitis B vaccine?
You need it if you're at risk-healthcare workers, travelers, or those with infected partners.
What are common hepatitis B vaccine side effects?
Mild arm soreness, low fever, or fatigue that usually resolve in a day or two.
How long does the hepatitis B vaccine last?
Protection can last 20 years or more. A booster may help if your antibody levels drop.
Can chronic hepatitis B be cured?
There's no cure yet, but antiviral medications can keep the virus under control and protect your liver.
When should I get tested for hepatitis B?
Get tested after a known exposure or if you have risk factors-testing is fast and accurate.
What is the hepatitis B surface antibody test?
It checks if your body has built protection after infection or vaccination.
Are there dietary restrictions with hepatitis B?
Avoid alcohol and limit fatty foods; focus on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
