Follow all instructions that your health care provider gives you.

• Take it easy. Get plenty of rest.

• Drink enough clear fluids to stay well hydrated. Fluids should be free of alcohol and caffeine.

• Avoid medicines such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and preparations that contain acetaminophen, which can be harmful to the liver.

• Do not drink alcohol until your health care provider tells you it is all right.

• Avoid prolonged or vigorous physical exercise until your symptoms improve.

• If symptoms worsen at any time, contact your health care provider

Self-care

If you've received a diagnosis of hepatitis B, your doctor will likely recommend certain lifestyle changes. These simple measures will help keep you healthy longer:

• Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol speeds the progression of liver disease.

• Avoid medications that may cause liver damage. Your doctor can advise you about these medications, which may include over-the-counter (OTC) medications as well as prescription drugs. It's especially important to avoid using acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), which can cause liver damage even in healthy people.

• Eat the healthiest diet you can. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Healthy foods help keep you strong, give you more energy and support your immune system. If you're nauseated, try eating small meals throughout the day. Choose foods that are soothing and easy to digest, such as soups, broths or a plain baked potato. A registered dietitian can be especially helpful if you have weight loss or trouble eating.

• Get regular exercise. Exercise helps increase your strength and energy levels.

• Get enough sleep. Rest when you need to.

Follow-up for Hepatitis C

Follow all instructions that your health care provider gives you. A healthy lifestyle is more important than ever.

• Eat a varied, healthy diet, take part in some physical activity daily, and get plenty of rest.

• Drink plenty of water and other noncaffeinated fluids to stay well hydrated.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages and medicines such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like Brufen, Aleve, Advil) that can be harmful in people with liver disease.

• If you have symptoms, avoid prolonged or vigorous physical exercise until your symptoms improve.

• If symptoms worsen at any time, contact your doctor.

The better you take care of yourself, the more likely you will be one of the many individuals who do well for many years.