Hepatitis

What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Max. D Gray
By Max. D Gray. Updated: January 16, 2017
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a disease that affects the liver causing inflammation in the body. It is caused by a virus infection or, in rarer cases, intoxication, consequently resulting in impaired liver function due to inflammation. Signs of this condition can be confused with other diseases, even with a simple flu, unless hallmark symptoms such as yellowing eyes and skin are presented. At OneHowTo we explain in detail what the symptoms of hepatitis A are.

You may also be interested in: What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C
Steps to follow:
1

Hepatitis A, being a viral disease, has several modes of transmission, among them are:

  • Ingesting water or food contaminated with hepatitis A
  • Having direct contact with fluids from an infected person.
  • Having anal or oral sex with an infected person without using condoms.
  • Receiving a blood transfusion from an infected person.
2

The symptoms of hepatitis A can easily be mistaken for the flu or a sporadic weakness, and in some patients there may not even be any symptoms at all. However it's important that if you think you have contracted the illness, you seek medical help for a blood test.

What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A - Step 2
3

The most common symptoms of hepatitis A are:

  • Tiredness and fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Stomachaches.
  • Some patients have jaundice, yellowing of the eyes and skin.
  • Joint pain.
  • It is also possible to manifest signs such as dark urine and faeces in a lighter colour than usual.

However, the illness has different symptoms in different people. You might have a mild illness that will only last a couple of weeks or it could last for months.

4

This condition can be easily diagnosed through a blood test. It is also possible to prevent transmission through the Hepatitis A vaccine which is given to infants but can also be given to children and adults who have not been vaccinated before.

There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A, it disappears by itself after several weeks. However it is recommended to rest, eat a diet low in fat and high in protein and follow to the letter the medical advice for a speedy recovery.

What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A - Step 4
5

You might be at a higher risk of contracting Hepatitis A if you:

  • Travel to regions where there is a high rate of hepatitis A.
  • Work in a child care center.
  • Are HIV positive.
  • Are a man who has sexual contact with another man.
  • Live with a person who has hepatitis A.
  • Have oral contact with someone suffering from hepatitis A.
6

Hepatitis A doesn't cause long term liver damage, but it needs to be treated by a doctor. If you experience any of the symptoms write them down and bring the list to your doctor. Explain him/her all your personal information and details so they can make a better diagnosis.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.

Write a comment

What did you think of this article?
1 of 3
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A