Understanding Hepatitis A: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention

Have you ever gotten sick after travelling to a new place? It might not have been just unfamiliar food. Hepatitis A, a highly contagious viral disease, can spread easily through contaminated water and food. Unsafe water and food can put you at risk, leading to inflammation of the liver and causing mild to severe illness.

There are 5 types of Hepatitis viruses, ranging from type A to E. Unlike Hepatitis B and C, Hepatitis A does not lead to chronic liver disease. The good news is that, while highly contagious, it is a preventable infection. The majority of people who get infected with Hepatitis A make a full recovery within 6-8 weeks and develop lifelong immunity. Hepatitis A and E viruses primarily spread through food and water contaminated with faecal matter.

Causes of Hepatitis A

Contaminated water: The Hepatitis A virus can survive in sewage-contaminated or inadequately treated water for extended periods. Drinking contaminated water can directly infect a person.

Contaminated food: Fruits, vegetables, or shellfish washed with contaminated water can become carriers of the virus.

Direct contact with an infected person.

Poor hand hygiene.

Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A infection can range from mild to severe, and some people, especially young children, may not experience any symptoms at all. However, symptoms typically appear within two to six weeks after exposure to the virus. This period is known as the incubation period during which the virus replicates throughout the body. Most people recover within two months, while some may experience symptoms for up to six months. In some cases, symptoms may resolve only to reappear (relapse).

The severity of symptoms can vary depending on individual factors such as age and overall health. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Diarrhoea
• Dark urine or dark-coloured stool
• Loss of appetite
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Itching

It's important to note that not everyone will develop symptoms. One in a hundred infected persons can experience severe hepatitis leading to liver failure, death, or requiring liver transplantation.

Treatment

Currently, there are no specific medications available, but the body can fight off the virus on its own over time with supportive care. Drinking plenty of water and consuming easily digestible foods rich in nutrients such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide the body with the building blocks it needs for healing.

The most important aspect of treatment is managing symptoms, maintaining good nutrition, and getting adequate rest until the liver recovers. Hospitalisation is usually unnecessary unless the individual experiences severe nausea, vomiting, or acute liver failure. People should also avoid unnecessary medications that can affect the liver, including allopathic (such as paracetamol), ayurvedic, and homoeopathic remedies. It's crucial to rest, stay hydrated, and maintain a balanced diet during recovery.

Prevention

Vaccination is the ultimate shield against Hepatitis A. Routine vaccination of children over 12 years old and vaccination before travelling is recommended. Proper handwashing after using the toilet and before eating food is essential. Safe food handling practices, including thorough washing of fruits and vegetables, should always be observed, especially while travelling.

Charles Panackel is a Senior Consultant in Hepatology, Aster Medcity, Kochi.