What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. Your liver is an important organ that helps clean your blood, process nutrients, and support many functions throughout your body.
Unlike hepatitis B and hepatitis C, hepatitis A does not cause a long-term (chronic) infection. Most people recover completely, and once you have had hepatitis A, you are protected from getting it again.
How is hepatitis A spread?
The hepatitis A virus is found in the stool (poop) of people who are infected. It spreads when someone unknowingly passes the virus to food, water, or surfaces because of poor handwashing.
Hepatitis A can spread through:
• Eating food or drinking water contaminated with the virus
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth
• Close contact with someone who has hepatitis A, including sexual contact
People are most contagious during the two weeks before symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) appear. This means someone can spread the virus before they know they are sick.
Symptoms of hepatitis A
After exposure to the virus, symptoms usually appear about 4 weeks later, but timing can vary.
Symptoms may include:
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Upset stomach or loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain, especially on the right side under the ribs
• Nausea or vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark-colored urine
• Light-colored or clay-colored stools
• Itchy skin
• Joint pain
Young children, especially those under age 6, may have few or no symptoms.
Diagnosing hepatitis A
Your provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam. A blood test is used to confirm whether you have hepatitis A.
If hepatitis A is diagnosed, the local health department may be notified to help identify the source of infection and prevent the virus from spreading to others. People who have been in close contact with someone who has hepatitis A may need treatment to help prevent infection.
Treatment for hepatitis A
There is no specific medicine that cures hepatitis A. Most people recover with supportive care at home.
Treatment may include:
• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking enough fluids to prevent dehydration
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Avoiding alcohol completely while your liver heals
• Avoiding acetaminophen (Tylenol) unless your provider says it is safe
• Reviewing all medications with your healthcare provider, as some medicines may affect the liver
Some people may need hospital care for fluids, nutrition support, or closer monitoring. Most people recover fully within 3 to 6 months.
After recovering from hepatitis A, your body develops immunity, which protects you from getting the infection again.
When to seek care
Contact your healthcare provider if you:
• Think you may have been exposed to hepatitis A
• Have been in close contact with someone who has hepatitis A
• Develop symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain
• Have symptoms that are getting worse instead of improving
Seek medical care right away if you develop:
• Confusion or extreme sleepiness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe symptoms that may indicate serious liver problems
Early evaluation can help you recover safely and prevent the spread of hepatitis A to others.
Contact us
If you have questions about hepatitis A or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at 612-871-1145 or schedule an appointment online.