Hepatitis A: Symptoms and causes

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. Unlike other forms of hepatitis, this type usually doesn’t result in long-term liver problems, but it can still cause severe symptoms and disruptions to everyday life. While most people recover fully, understanding the symptoms of hepatitis A, its causes, how it’s diagnosed, and treatment options is essential for prevention and early care.

Understanding Hepatitis A Better

Hepatitis A is one of several viruses that affect the liver. It causes inflammation and impairs its ability to function. Unlike hepatitis B or C, hepatitis A usually doesn’t lead to chronic liver disease, but it can cause serious illness for a few weeks or even months. The infection is most often transmitted through contaminated food or water, which is why it is often associated with food poisoning outbreaks.

Hepatitis A virus is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact with infected individuals or surfaces. While it’s not spread through coughing or sneezing, poor sanitation and hygiene practices can lead to quick transmission.

Hepatitis A Symptoms

Hepatitis A symptoms don’t appear right away. In fact, the symptoms might appear two to seven weeks after infection. Not everyone experiences symptoms, but when they do occur, they can range from mild to severe.

Here are common symptoms of hepatitis A:

• Sudden nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen (near the liver)
• Low-grade fever
• Joint pain
• Dark urine
• Clay-coloured stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
• Intense itching

These symptoms are often mistaken for other gastrointestinal diseases or food poisoning, which is why a timely hepatitis A diagnosis is essential. The symptoms often fade in a few weeks, but for some, it can take months to fully recover.

Causes of Hepatitis A

The causes of hepatitis A are all related to the spread of the hepatitis A virus, which attacks the liver. The virus is most commonly spread through the faecal-oral route, meaning it gets into the mouth through contaminated hands, food, or water.

Here’s how it typically spreads:

• Eating food prepared by someone who has hepatitis A and didn’t wash their hands properly.
• Drinking contaminated water.
• Eating raw shellfish from polluted water.
• Touching contaminated objects and then touching your mouth.
• Having close contact or sex with an infected person.
• Living with someone who is infected, even if they show no symptoms.

Poor hygiene and sanitation are the biggest contributing factors. Areas with limited clean water supply or lacking proper waste disposal are particularly high risk.

Who is at Risk of Hepatitis A Infection?

• People who travel or work in areas where hepatitis A is common
• Individuals with haemophilia or other blood clotting disorders
• Illegal drug users (including non-injection drugs)
• Individuals who live with or care for someone with hepatitis A
• HIV-positive people
• Workers in environments where they might be exposed to the virus, such as labs or sanitation jobs

If you fall into any of these categories, talk to a doctor about hepatitis A vaccination and other preventive measures.

Hepatitis A Diagnosis

When symptoms appear, a doctor will likely recommend a blood test to confirm whether or not hepatitis A is present. This test checks for antibodies to the hepatitis A virus. Sometimes, a hepatitis A diagnosis is missed because not everyone shows jaundice or other obvious signs, especially in children or healthy adults.

Doctors may also ask about recent travel, dietary habits, and any known exposure to infected individuals to make an accurate diagnosis.

Hepatitis A Treatment

There is no specific cure or antiviral medication for hepatitis A. Most people recover naturally with rest, fluids, and proper nutrition. Here are the basic steps of hepatitis A treatment:

• Stay hydrated to avoid complications from dehydration, especially if vomiting or diarrhoea is present.
• Get plenty of rest to help your body recover.
• Avoid alcohol, as it can further damage your liver.
• Follow a nutritious diet, even if your appetite is low.

Hospitalisation may be needed in rare cases of acute liver failure, especially in older adults or people with existing liver conditions. If liver damage worsens, patients may be referred to a Liver Transplant and HPB Surgery Hospital in Bangalore or the city where they reside for further evaluation. In such critical scenarios, the Best Liver Transplant Surgeon in Bangalore or their city can offer life-saving treatment through timely liver transplant procedures.

Can Hepatitis A Cause Complications?

Fortunately, hepatitis A rarely leads to long-term liver damage. But in rare cases, especially in people with other liver diseases, the infection can lead to acute liver failure, a condition where the liver suddenly stops working. When this happens, hospitalisation is required immediately, and in extreme cases, a liver transplant might be the only solution.

How to Prevent Hepatitis A

Preventing hepatitis A is easier than treating it. The most effective way to stay safe is to get vaccinated. The hepatitis A vaccine is given in two doses—once initially and a booster shot 6 to 12 months later. Here’s who should take the Hepatitis A vaccine:

• All children above age 1
• Travellers to regions with poor sanitation
• People with chronic liver disease
• Illegal drug users
• Laboratory workers exposed to the virus
• Individuals who have close contact with infected persons

Along with vaccination, here are everyday habits to prevent infection:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.
• Avoid drinking tap water in countries where hepatitis A is common. Use bottled or boiled water instead.
• Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish.
• Choose clean and well-reviewed restaurants instead of eating at unhygienic roadside stalls.
• Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.

Final Thoughts

Hepatitis A is a preventable and treatable infectious disease, but early awareness is key. Knowing the symptoms of hepatitis A, understanding the causes of hepatitis A, getting a timely diagnosis, and following appropriate treatment steps can help prevent complications. Your liver health matters—protect it with knowledge, hygiene, and vaccination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What mainly causes hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which spreads when a person consumes food or water contaminated with the faeces of an infected individual.

Can hepatitis A be completely cured?

Yes, normally, hepatitis A is cured within a few weeks without any significant liver damage.

What are typical sources of hepatitis A infection?

Common sources include contaminated water, unpeeled or raw fruits and vegetables, shellfish, and ice. Contact with an infected person’s stool or blood can also spread the virus.

How long do hepatitis A symptoms usually last?

Symptoms usually clear up within two months, but the infection can last up to six months in people with weak immune systems.

Can someone live a normal life with hepatitis?

Yes, especially with hepatitis B. With proper medical care, people can lead healthy, normal lives. Antiviral treatment may be needed in some chronic cases.