Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. (Several types of hepatitis viruses can infect the liver. Each is named with a letter of the alphabet. There are 3 main types: hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.)

Hepatitis A causes inflammation of the liver, which leads to soreness and swelling.

The liver breaks down waste products in your blood. When the liver is inflamed, it doesn't do a good job of getting rid of waste products. One waste product in the blood, called bilirubin (say "billy-roo-bin"), begins to build up in the blood and tissues when you have hepatitis. The bilirubin can make the skin and/or whites of the eyes of a person with hepatitis turn a yellowish color. This is called jaundice (say "john-dis").

Hepatitis A is spread through feces. You can get infected through close contact with an infected person (for example, changing a diaper or having sexual contact), even if that person does not have any symptoms. In fact, hepatitis A is most contagious before symptoms appear. You can also get infected by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. The virus can live on hands, in water and in soil. Hepatitis A is common in developing countries.

Typically, you will have the virus for one month before symptoms appear.

When symptoms do appear, they usually com on suddenly and include:

It is important to remember that some people who have the hepatitis A never develop any symptoms.

Young children are also likely to have very mild cases of hepatitis A.

See your doctor is you have any of these symptoms. He or she can do a blood test to see if you have hepatitis A.

There is no medication to treat or cure hepatitis A. If you have the virus, you should get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet and avoid alcohol and acetaminophen (one brand: Tylenol).

Talk with your doctor about any other over-the-counter medications you are taking, as they may need to be changed or stopped while you have hepatitis A.

You may need to stay in the hospital for a short time if you get dehydrated, have severe pain, suddenly become confused develop bleeding problems.

You are most contagious soon after you are infected and before symptoms appear. Adults who are otherwise healthy are no longer contagious 2 weeks after the illness begins. Children and people with weak immune systems may be contagious for up to 6 months.

Ask your doctor about the hepatitis A vaccine. The shot is safe for anyone over 2 years of age and can provide protection for up to 20 years.

Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after cooking, after using the bathroom and after changing diapers.

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating and avoid raw or undercooked meat and fish.

If you come into contact with someone who has hepatitis A and you have never had the virus or the vaccine, you should see your doctor right away. He or she can give you a shot that will help keep you from getting sick.