Patient's question:
I have been undergoing antiviral treatment for hepatitis B for over two years. I would like to ask about the frequency of checking viral load. My last viral load test was two years ago, when it was six times higher. At that time, I just discovered that I had converted from viral load to hepatitis B and then started antiviral treatment. After that, I didn't specifically check my viral load again, though other tests were done periodically. In July, my ultrasound was normal, but my total bilirubin was slightly higher than normal, while other liver function tests were normal.How often is it generally recommended to check viral load? Would it be okay if I check it in two months, as I currently don’t have the time?
Besides ultrasound, how often is it best to check liver function tests when I’m away from home? Last year, I had an ultrasound every two months, which I found a bit too frequent.
I had both an ultrasound and liver function tests in July, so do I need to check anything else recently?
Doctor's answer:
Hello: According to your condition, after antiviral treatment, you can start taking medication and have liver function and viral load tests every month. Once stable, the time interval can be gradually extended based on your condition, such as every two months, three months, or even a year. Viral load tests are essential to monitor the effectiveness of the medication. In fact, having hepatitis B is not, and patients should believe that they can overcome the disease. As long as symptoms are detected early and appropriate treatment is provided, the chances of relieving the condition and recovering are very high.