What is hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a liver infection. It is caused by the hepatitis A virus. The virus is found in the stool of a person who has the disease. It is spread when people eat food or drink water that has come in contact with the infected stool. This can happen if a person eats food prepared by someone who doesn't wash their hands after changing a diaper or going to the bathroom. It also can be spread when people touch items that have infected stool on them, and then drink or eat without washing their hands.
In countries that have poor sewer systems, people can get the virus by drinking the water or eating foods washed in the water.
A person can get the hepatitis A virus only once. After that, the body builds up a defense against it.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?
Symptoms may include:
- Tiredness.
- Nausea.
- Diarrhea.
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
- Vomiting.
Symptoms usually last about 3 months. They go away on their own in almost all cases and do not need treatment. Although hepatitis A is an infection of the liver, the disease does not lead to long-term liver problems.
How is hepatitis A diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and where you have eaten or traveled. You may have blood tests. These tests can tell if your liver is inflamed and whether you have antibodies to the hepatitis A virus. These antibodies show that you have been exposed to the virus.
How is hepatitis A treated?
There is no treatment for hepatitis A. You get better on your own. You can take steps to help yourself feel better:
- Reduce your activity level to meet your energy level.
- Eat regular meals. If you feel sick to your stomach, eat many small meals rather than three large meals.
- To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids. Choose water and other clear liquids until you feel better. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
- Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs. Using drugs or alcohol may make the disease last longer.
How can you care for yourself when you have hepatitis A?
If you have nausea or vomiting, eat smaller meals and eat more often. Avoid alcohol for 2 to 3 months. It can make liver problems worse. Tell your doctor about the medicines you take. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), for example, can make liver problems worse. Drink plenty of fluids if you don't need to limit them.
Hepatitis A in children: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
- Your child vomits blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
- Your child is suddenly confused and cannot think clearly.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child is dizzy or lightheaded, or you think your child may faint.
- Your child has signs of needing more fluids. These signs include sunken eyes with few tears, a dry mouth with little or no spit, and little or no urine for 6 hours.
- Your child has nausea and vomiting that does not go away.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child does not get better as expected.
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