Overview
Hepatitis A is common in places with poor sanitation. It usually gets better on its own and does not cause long-term liver disease. A vaccine can prevent it.
Symptoms
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Tiredness and fever
- Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Children often have mild or no symptoms
Causes and risk factors
It spreads through food or water contaminated with stool from an infected person and through close contact.
Diagnosis
A blood test for hepatitis A antibodies confirms it. Liver function tests show how the liver is affected.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment. Rest, fluids, good nutrition and avoiding alcohol help recovery. Rarely, severe cases need hospital care.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you develop jaundice. Seek urgent care for confusion, drowsiness, bleeding or vomiting that stops you drinking.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
