Hepatitis A

Overview

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It is usually short-term, and most people recover fully within a few months. Unlike some other hepatitis viruses, it does not usually cause long-term liver damage.

Hepatitis A used to be common worldwide, but rates have dropped sharply in countries with clean water, good sanitation, and vaccination. It still affects people in many parts of the world, especially where sanitation is limited.

Anyone can get hepatitis A, but it is more common in areas with poor sanitation. Travellers to those areas, people living in crowded conditions, and close contacts of someone infected are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling very tired
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the tummy
• Poor appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Dark urine or pale stools
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Itchy skin

Symptoms in children

• Many children have no symptoms at all
• Mild diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Slight fever

Symptoms in older adults

• More severe symptoms
• Deep yellowing of the skin and eyes
• Nausea and vomiting that lasts longer
• Severe tiredness
• Weight loss
• Longer recovery time

Causes

Main causes

• The hepatitis A virus
• Eating or drinking food or water contaminated with tiny amounts of stool from an infected person
• Close personal contact, such as household or sexual contact with someone who is infected
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your hands near your mouth

Risk factors

• Travelling to countries where hepatitis A is common
• Living with or caring for someone who has hepatitis A
• Using shared injection equipment
• Living in crowded conditions with poor hygiene
• Men who have sex with men
• Being homeless or living without reliable sanitation

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes
• If you have symptoms after travelling or after being in contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis A
• If your symptoms are getting worse
• If you cannot keep fluids down and feel very weak

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are worried about possible exposure to hepatitis A
• If you want to check whether you need vaccination
• If mild symptoms last longer than a week

Diagnosis

Hepatitis A is diagnosed with a blood test. Your doctor may also ask about your symptoms, travel history, what you have eaten recently, and whether you have been near anyone who is infected.

Tests that may be done

• Blood test for hepatitis A antibodies
• Liver function tests to check how well the liver is working
• Additional blood tests to rule out other types of hepatitis

What to expect at your appointment

The main test is a simple blood test. Results usually come back within a few days. If you are infected, your doctor will explain what to do at home, how to avoid spreading the virus, and whether any follow-up tests are needed.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment that cures hepatitis A. The infection usually clears on its own. Care focuses on rest, fluids, and protecting the liver while the body fights the virus.

Self-care at home

• Rest as much as you need, especially if you feel tired
• Drink small amounts of fluid often, especially if you have vomited
• Eat small, bland meals if you feel able
• Avoid alcohol completely while your liver recovers
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend medicines to help manage nausea or discomfort, but no medication cures the virus. In severe cases, a person may need care in hospital for intravenous fluids and close monitoring.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable. Surgery is not used to treat hepatitis A.

Living with this condition

During recovery, fatigue can come and go. Plan your day so you have time to rest. You can usually return to work or school when you feel well enough, but avoid close contact with others until a healthcare provider says it is safe.

Lifestyle tips

• Take time off work or school while you feel unwell
• Avoid alcohol until your doctor confirms your liver has recovered
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicines, including over-the-counter products, some may be harder for the liver to process
• Keep washing your hands carefully to avoid passing the virus to others
• Let close contacts know they should ask a healthcare provider about whether they need vaccination or testing

Diet and exercise

Light exercise like walking is fine if you feel up to it, but do not push yourself. Eat a balanced diet with small meals if nausea is a problem. Avoid alcohol completely.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling tired, isolated, or worried while recovering is normal. If you feel low, anxious, or overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust or seek support from a mental health professional.

Prevention

Yes, hepatitis A can be prevented. Good hygiene, safe water and sanitation, and vaccination are all highly effective.

Vaccines

The hepatitis A vaccine is available and is the best protection. It is often recommended for travellers, people with liver disease, and people at higher risk. Ask a qualified healthcare provider whether the vaccine is right for you.

Screening programmes

Routine screening in the general population is not usually recommended. Blood tests are used when there is a possible exposure, symptoms, or a need to check for immunity.

Complications

If left untreated

• Rarely, hepatitis A can lead to sudden and severe liver failure, which needs urgent medical care
• Dehydration from prolonged vomiting
• Prolonged illness with fatigue lasting for months, though most people still recover

Long-term outlook

For almost everyone, hepatitis A is a short-term illness that clears on its own. After recovery, the body develops lasting immunity. A small number of people need hospital care, and almost all recover fully.

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