Hepatitis A
Overview
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that is spread in the poo of an infected person. Most people who get it get better within a few months.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hepatitis A infection include: a high temperatureflu-like symptoms, such as tiredness, headache, and muscle painsfeeling sick or being sickpain in your upper tummydiarrhoea or constipationpale yellow or pale grey poodark brown peeitchy skin – you may also have a raised rash (hives)yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes (jaundice) Most children, and some adults, may have mild symptoms or no symptoms.
Causes
Viral (HAV). Faecal-oral spread (contaminated food/water; poor hygiene; anal sex). Common abroad.
Treatment
Hepatitis A usually clears up on its own within 3 to 6 months. Your doctor may offer you medicines to help with the symptoms, such as painkillers or medicines to stop you feeling sick or itchy. A small number of people with hepatitis A may get liver problems. You may need blood tests to check your liver is working properly.
Prevention
Vaccine (travel/risk groups); good hygiene (wash hands); avoid tap water/ice/raw fruit in high-risk areas.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: jaundice; symptoms of hepatitis. Urgent if: confusing/drowsy (liver failure signs).