Patient's question:
I am a teacher with 20 years of experience. I don't usually like to drink alcohol, and my tolerance is quite good. We have a health check-up every two years. This year, during my health check-up, I was diagnosed with hepatitis B. I vaguely remember getting the hepatitis B vaccine in the past, so how could I still have this disease? I am very upset and worried that it might be transmitted to my family.Doctor's answer:
Those with liver disease should avoid alcohol entirely. You can tell them you have fatty liver, which is a non-infectious liver condition. If you don’t want to drink beer at the table, just don’t start in the first place—don’t say you’ll just have a little. I’ve heard of people who are very successful in business but never touch alcohol. Be firm with yourself. Your virus is copying, and your liver function may be abnormal. Drinking beer will only add more pressure to your liver function, because alcohol is metabolized by the liver and gallbladder. If your liver isn’t functioning properly, there won’t be enough bile to metabolize the alcohol. Over time, this could lead to cirrhosis. Never drink beer if you have a liver condition!