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Hepatitis A
Moderate
Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is usually spread when a person ingests food or water contaminated with infected stool, or through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include tiredness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Most people recover fully.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Hepatitis A usually resolves with supportive care, but seek prompt medical assessment for worsening jaundice, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, dehydration, confusion, unusual bleeding, or rapidly worsening illness. Emergency care is needed for altered consciousness, severe dehydration, or signs of acute liver failure.
Symptoms
4
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is usually spread when a person ingests food or water contaminated with infected stool, or through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include tiredness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Most people recover fully.
Symptoms 4
Blood In Stool
Fatigue
Fever
Loss of Appetite
Causes 1
Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus. Infection usually occurs when contaminated food or water is swallowed, or when the virus is transferred from an infected person through poor hand hygiene. It can also spread through close personal contact and certain sexual practices involving oral-anal contact. The virus enters through the digestive system and then affects the liver.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk of hepatitis A is higher with travel or residence in areas where the infection is more common, close contact with an infected person, poor sanitation, unsafe food or water, and certain sexual practices. People who use injection drugs and those working in settings involving food, healthcare, childcare, or sewage may also have increased exposure.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Hepatitis A is diagnosed using the symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and blood tests. Testing can identify antibodies associated with recent hepatitis A infection, while liver-function tests may show inflammation or impaired liver function. The clinician may also assess exposure history, travel, food or water exposure, and other possible causes of hepatitis.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Hepatitis A can often be prevented through vaccination, careful handwashing, safe food handling, and drinking safe water
Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food
Avoid contaminated food and water when traveling in areas where hepatitis A is common
People exposed to the virus who are not immune should promptly discuss vaccination or preventive treatment with a healthcare professional
Prevention Guidance
Hepatitis A can often be prevented through vaccination, careful handwashing, safe food handling, and drinking safe water. Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food. Avoid contaminated food and water when traveling in areas where hepatitis A is common. People exposed to the virus who are not immune should promptly discuss vaccination or preventive treatment with a healthcare professional.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins for recovery.
Vegetable Soup
Easy to digest.
Rice
Provides energy.
Adequate Fluids
Prevent dehydration.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
Can worsen liver injury.
Oily Foods
May burden digestion.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is a viral infection that affects the liver.
It spreads through contaminated food and water.
Jaundice, fever, nausea, and fatigue may occur.
Yes, vaccination and hygiene are effective preventive measures.
No, it usually does not become chronic.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.