Hepatitis A Overview and Management
Know about hepatitis, what it is, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, management and treatment. Learn about the prevention and vaccination, and more.
Written by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 2nd Sep, 2025
Introduction
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). Unlike Hepatitis B and C, which can become chronic, Hepatitis A is usually a short-term illness that resolves on its own. However, it can still make you very sick if not managed properly.
In this article, we’ll cover: What Hepatitis A is, how it spreads, symptoms to watch for, how to prevent and manage it and when to see a doctor.
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an infection that inflames the liver. It spreads mainly through contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person. Most people recover fully without lasting liver damage, but in rare cases, it can lead to severe complications, especially in older adults or those with existing liver disease.
Consult a Liver Specialist for Personalised Advice
How Does Hepatitis A Spread?
Hepatitis A is highly contagious and spreads through:
• Contaminated food or water – Eating food handled by an infected person who didn’t wash their hands properly.
• Close contact – Living with or caring for someone with Hepatitis A.
• Poor sanitation – Drinking water or eating food contaminated with the virus.
Unlike Hepatitis B and C, Hepatitis A does not spread through blood or sexual contact (though sexual activity with an infected person can sometimes transmit it).
Symptoms of Hepatitis A
Symptoms usually appear 2 to 6 weeks after exposure and may include:
• Fatigue (feeling very tired)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain (especially on the right side, near the liver)
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Dark urine
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Clay-colored stools
Some people, especially young children, may have no symptoms but can still spread the virus.
Who is at Risk?
You may be at higher risk if you:
• Travel to countries with poor sanitation
• Live with or care for someone infected with Hepatitis A
• Eat raw or undercooked shellfish from contaminated water
• Have weak immunity or chronic liver disease
How is Hepatitis A Diagnosed?
If you suspect you have Hepatitis A, your doctor may recommend:
• Blood tests – To detect HAV antibodies.
• Liver function tests – To check for liver damage.
Management and Treatment
There is no specific medicine for Hepatitis A. The body usually fights off the infection on its own within a few weeks to months. However, you can take steps to feel better and prevent complications:
1. Rest and Hydration
• Get plenty of rest to help your liver recover.
• Drink fluids (water, herbal teas, ORS) to prevent dehydration.
2. Eat a Liver-Friendly Diet
• Avoid alcohol – It can worsen liver damage.
• Eat small, frequent meals – Easier on your stomach.
• Choose healthy foods – Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Avoid fatty or fried foods – They can make nausea worse.
3. Medications (With Caution)
• Avoid unnecessary medicines (like acetaminophen/paracetamol) unless prescribed.
• Some anti-nausea or pain relievers may help, but always check with your doctor first.
4. Prevent Spreading It to Others
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap after using the bathroom.
• Avoid preparing food for others while sick.
• Stay home until your doctor confirms you’re no longer contagious.
Prevention: The Best Protection
The Hepatitis A vaccine is the best way to prevent infection. It’s safe and highly effective, usually given in two doses (6 months apart).
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
It includes:
• Travellers to high-risk areas
• People with chronic liver disease
• Men who have sex with men
• Drug users
• Anyone who wants long-term protection
Other Preventive Measures:
It includes:
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Drink clean, boiled, or bottled water when travelling.
• Avoid raw or undercooked food in areas with poor sanitation.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if you:
• Have symptoms of Hepatitis A (especially jaundice).
• Experience severe vomiting or dehydration.
• Have existing liver disease or a weakened immune system.
Final Thoughts
Hepatitis A is usually a short-term illness, but it can be uncomfortable and sometimes serious. The good news is that it’s preventable with vaccination and good hygiene. If you think you’ve been exposed or are experiencing symptoms, getting tested early can help manage the condition better.
Consult a Liver Specialist for Personalised Advice
Consult a Liver Specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Srinivasa Reddy
Hepatologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Hepatology),ASGE
Hyderabad
Myra Liver & Gastro Care, Hyderabad
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Pukhraj Singh Jeji
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine ), DM ( Gastroenterology ), Consultant - Gastroenterology
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr Amey Sonavane
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • "MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) DNB (Gastroenterology) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
Consult a Liver Specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Srinivasa Reddy
Hepatologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Hepatology),ASGE
Hyderabad
Myra Liver & Gastro Care, Hyderabad
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Pukhraj Singh Jeji
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine ), DM ( Gastroenterology ), Consultant - Gastroenterology
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr Amey Sonavane
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • "MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) DNB (Gastroenterology) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
