Cause of What is Hepatitis A?
Gastroenterologist, Manipal Patiala, 15 years of experience
What is the meaning of Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a type of liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. The person is affected by the virus only when they come in contact with contaminated water and food. If a healthy person consumes contaminated food or water, the virus becomes vulnerable. There are several types of hepatitis infection, including Hepatitis A, B, and C. Hepatitis A is less fatal than other types, but if you notice any signs or symptoms, then immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Let us tell you about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Hepatitis A in today’s article.
- What are the causes of Hepatitis A?
- What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?
- Diagnosis of Hepatitis A
- What are the treatments for Hepatitis A?
What are the causes of Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is caused by the virus that infects liver cells and causes inflammation. The liver does not perform its function properly when there is inflammation in the liver. Hepatitis A begins to cause symptoms. The virus mainly spreads through contaminated food and water. The virus does not transmit through sneezing or coughing.
Hepatitis A virus may spread due to the following reasons.
- Not washing the hands properly after using the toilet
- Eating food items and drinking water contaminated by the virus.
- Eating raw shellfish from water polluted by sewage.
- Being in close contact with someone infected by the virus, regardless of whether the person has any symptoms or not.
- Having sexual intercourse with someone who already has the virus. ( Know more about- What are the symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Diseases? )
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?
If the person has Hepatitis A infection, there may be a problem of swelling in the liver. Apart from this, some people do not experience any symptoms. However, some of the following symptoms may be seen in people infected by the Hepatitis A virus:
- Jaundice (pale eyes and skin)
- Abdominal pain
- Deep yellow urine ( Know more about- What is Blood in urine ? )
- Loss of appetite
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Itching
- Yellow-colored poop
- Joint pain
- Fever
- Diarrhea ( Know more about- What is Diarrhea ? )
- Feeling tired
Although this infection may last up to 2 months but starts to subside later, the symptoms can recur after 6 months. If the person is infected by hepatitis A, the virus can spread for about 2 weeks.
Diagnosis of Hepatitis A
To diagnose hepatitis A, the doctor performs a general examination, asking about the symptoms and history of previous illness. Other tests can be done to check for high levels of liver enzymes in a person’s blood.
- IgM (immunoglobulin M) antibodies – Your body makes these if you are exposed to hepatitis A for the first time. They remain in your blood for about 3 to 6 months.
- IgG (immunoglobulin G) antibodies – These antibodies are produced when the Hepatitis A virus appears in a person’s body for some time. It may be formed if the infection persists for a long time. However, they protect you against Hepatitis A. If you test positive for them, but not IgM antibodies, it means the person has previously been infected by Hepatitis A or vaccinated against it.
( Know more about- What is Liver Function Tests? )
What are the treatments for Hepatitis A?
There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A, but the body automatically produces antibodies to fight against the hepatitis A virus. In many cases, the infection gets cured within six months. Generally, the treatment of hepatitis A infection includes managing the signs and symptoms of the patient.
- Take proper rest – Many people affected by Hepatitis A infection feel tired and ill and have little energy. In such a situation, there is a need to take more rest.
- Manage nausea – It becomes difficult to eat anything when you have nausea. In this case, instead of having a full meal, take small snacks throughout the day. To get enough calories in the body, eat high-calorie foods. However, instead of water, one should drink fruit juice or milk. In case of vomiting, it is necessary to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid alcohol and use medications with care – If you want to prevent liver disease, do not consume alcohol. Consuming alcohol further complicates hepatitis infection. Talk to your doctor about all medications you take, including over-the-counter medications.
Most of the people show complete recovery from hepatitis A with above treatment options mentioned. However, adults above age 50 may have serious complications like Liver Failure due to hepatitis A. In advanced cases of liver failure, patients are advised to get Liver Transplant done. ( Know more about- What is Liver Transplant ? )
We hope that we could answer your questions regarding Hepatitis A infection through this article.
If you want to get more information and treatment about Hepatitis A, you can contact the Gastroenterologist.
We only aim to give you information through the article. We do not recommend medication, treatment in any way. Only a doctor can give you the best advice and correct treatment plan.
