TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Causes of Hepatitis A
2. Risk Factors
3. Symptoms of Hepatitis A
4. Diagnosis of Hepatitis A
5. Treatment of Hepatitis A
6. How to Prevent Hepatitis A?
7. Complications of Hepatitis A
8. When to See a Doctor

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Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, which spreads through the feces of an infected person. In rare cases, hepatitis A can be life-threatening if the liver is unable to function properly. 

The virus spreads primarily through the consumption of food or water contaminated with fecal matter from an infected individual. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person.

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against the virus.

Causes of Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that infects liver cells and triggers inflammation. This inflammation affects how the liver works, leading to symptoms.

Unlike respiratory viruses, hepatitis A is not spread through coughing or sneezing. Instead, transmission occurs mainly through contaminated food or water.

Common ways the hepatitis A virus spreads include:

• Eating food prepared without proper hand hygiene
• Consuming food or drinks contaminated with feces from an infected person
• Eating raw shellfish from polluted waters
• Having close contact with someone who is infected
• Engaging in sexual activity with an infected person

Parents should also be aware of how hepatitis A spreads in children.

Risk Factors

People who are unvaccinated are at higher risk of infection. Most cases occur in children or individuals with the following risk factors:

• Traveling to or working in areas with high hepatitis A rates
• Working at or attending daycare centers
• Living with an infected person
• Having male-to-male sexual contact
• Living with HIV
• Having clotting factor disorders such as hemophilia
• Using illegal drugs of any kind

Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Not everyone infected with hepatitis A experiences symptoms. Adults are more likely to show symptoms than children.

If symptoms do appear, they usually begin about 4 weeks after exposure and may last for several months.

Common symptoms of hepatitis A include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Joint and muscle pain
• Elevated body temperature
• Loss of appetite
• Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Dark-colored urine or pale stools
• Itchy skin

Diagnosis of Hepatitis A

To diagnose hepatitis A, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and family medical history. If jaundice is suspected, a blood test will be ordered.

Blood tests help assess liver function and detect antibodies associated with the virus.

Additional tests may include:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Antibody tests for hepatitis B and C

These tests help determine whether jaundice is caused by hepatitis A or another condition.

If hepatitis A symptoms are concerning, consult a doctor immediately to ensure prompt care.

Treatment of Hepatitis A

There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. The immune system typically clears the virus on its own.

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting your recovery. If you’re feeling unwell, here are a few things you can do:

• Get plenty of rest
• Take pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
• Ensure good air circulation in your home
• Eat light meals or fruit to reduce nausea
• Avoid alcohol
• Refrain from sexual activity until cleared
• Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing

In addition to medical care, lifestyle changes are also recommended for people recovering from hepatitis A.

How to Prevent Hepatitis A?

The best way to prevent hepatitis A is through vaccination. It’s especially important for people at higher risk, such as:

• Sanitation workers
• Toilet cleaners
• Sexually active individuals
• People with chronic liver disease

Other preventive measures include:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and running water, especially before meals, food preparation, or after using the toilet
• Not sharing personal items such as toothbrushes, towels, or eating utensils
• Thoroughly cooking food and boiling water before consumption

Complications of Hepatitis A

Most people recover from hepatitis A without complications. However, about 10% may experience a relapse. Fortunately, relapses usually resolve completely.

In rare cases, the infection can lead to fulminant hepatitis, a severe form of acute hepatitis that may result in liver failure.

The risk of death from fulminant hepatitis increases with age, particularly in adults over 50 or those with pre-existing liver conditions like cirrhosis or liver fibrosis.

When to See a Doctor

Visit the nearest hospital if you develop any of the symptoms mentioned above. If you suspect recent exposure to the virus, get a hepatitis A vaccine or an immunoglobulin (antibody) injection within two weeks.

You can also start by consulting our English-speaking doctor on Halodoc to receive early medical advice and care from your smartphone using the Halodoc app. 

Doctors are available 24 hours to answer your questions.

You can also purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

References:

World Health Organization. Accessed 2025. Hepatitis A.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 2025. Hepatitis.

National Health Service UK. Accessed 2025. Hepatitis.

Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2025. Hepatitis A.