Are you worried about hepatitis A near you? This viral infection affects millions of people worldwide each year. Understanding how this disease spreads and how doctors treat it can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection. Unlike other forms of hepatitis, this type rarely causes long-term health problems.
Let us explore how a person might receive or transmit the hepatitis A virus. We will also go over your options for treatment and what to anticipate while you are recovering.
How Hepatitis A Spreads
Most people recover completely from hepatitis A with time and rest. However, the symptoms can be unpleasant and disruptive to daily life. Here is how it spreads:
Person-to-Person Transmission
Hepatitis A spreads mainly through the fecal-oral route. This means the virus travels from infected feces to another person’s mouth. It often happens when people do not wash their hands properly after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
The virus can survive outside of a host for a very long time. Door handles, keyboards, and other frequently touched items can harbor the virus. When someone touches these contaminated surfaces and then touches their mouth, they can become infected.
Close personal contact also spreads the virus. For example, sexual contact can spread the disease. People living in the same household as someone with hepatitis A have a higher risk of infection.
Contaminated Food and Water
Food and water contamination represent another major transmission route. The virus can contaminate food when infected food handlers do not wash their hands properly. Restaurants, schools, and other food service establishments sometimes experience outbreaks this way.
Raw or undercooked shellfish from contaminated waters pose a particular risk. Oysters, clams, and mussels can harbor the virus if they come from polluted waters. Even contaminated water used to wash produce can spread the virus.
Ice made from contaminated water can transmit the virus. This is especially important to remember when traveling to areas with poor sanitation. Drinking bottled water and avoiding ice in drinks can reduce your risk.
High-Risk Situations
Some situations make it more likely to catch hepatitis A.
People who use recreational drugs, whether they inject them or not, are at higher risk. Sharing needles or being close to infected drug users can spread the virus.
Homosexual men can also be vulnerable to the disease. The virus can spread through sexual contact, especially if it involves oral-anal contact.
People who are homeless are also at higher risk because of poor sanitation. Crowded spaces and not having enough places to wash hands make it easier for the virus to spread.
How Hepatitis A Is Treated
Currently, no specific antiviral medication treats hepatitis A. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting your body while it fights the infection.
Most people recover completely with supportive care alone. During the acute stage of the sickness, rest is essential. Your body needs energy to combat the virus and repair your liver. Steer clear of demanding tasks and get lots of rest.
Staying hydrated helps your body function properly during illness. You can do this by drinking plenty of water. Clear broths and herbal teas can also help. Avoid alcohol completely, as it can further damage your liver while also dehydrating you.
Symptom Management
Hepatitis A can also cause nausea and vomiting, making it difficult for you to take in nutrients. You can manage both by eating small, frequent meals. Bland foods like crackers, toast, and rice are often easier to tolerate.
Fever and body aches respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers. However, avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol) because it can harm your already stressed liver. Ibuprofen or aspirin works better for hepatitis A patients.
Itchy skin sometimes occurs with hepatitis A. Cool baths and loose-fitting clothing can provide relief. Avoid scratching, which can lead to secondary infections.
Dietary Considerations
Your diet plays an important role in recovery. Small, frequent meals will usually be better for you than having big meals. This approach is easier on your digestive system and helps prevent nausea.
Focus on easily digestible foods during the acute phase. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) is gentle on your stomach. You can add other foods as your symptoms improve.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular monitoring by a gastroenterologist helps track your recovery progress. This will typically involve a blood test, so that a provider can see your liver health. These tests typically improve as the infection resolves.
Most people start feeling better within two to three weeks. However, complete recovery can take several months. Some individuals might have no other symptoms but still experience fatigue for months.
Watch for signs of problems, though they are rare. You should seek medical help right away if you feel any of the following:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Confusion
Prevention After Exposure
If you have been exposed to hepatitis A, post-exposure prophylaxis might help. Getting a vaccine for hepatitis A may prevent most of the symptoms if you receive it within two weeks of exposure.
Immunoglobulin injections also provide short-term protection and work best when given within two weeks of exposure. People over 40 or with chronic medical conditions often receive this injection.
Family members and close contacts should receive prophylaxis. This prevents the spread of infection within households and communities.
Treatment for Hepatitis A in Austin, TX
Understanding how hepatitis A spreads and how doctors treat it empowers you to protect your health. Early recognition of symptoms and proper medical care lead to better outcomes.
Getting medical care early can prevent most of the symptoms and negate most complications.
Trust Austin Gastroenterology for expert care and treatment of hepatitis A. Our physicians are highly experienced, and we can provide complete care for all types of liver conditions. Call our office nearest to you or use our appointment request form to schedule a consultation. We have multiple offices across North, Central, and South Texas to ensure you receive the care you need.
We look forward to serving you!
