What it is
Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is most often spread when a person swallows food, water or other things contaminated with the stool of an infected person, which is why handwashing and food and water safety matter.
Unlike hepatitis B and hepatitis C, hepatitis A is generally an acute illness. It usually does not become a long-term (chronic) infection, and most people recover without lasting liver damage. Some people have mild symptoms or none at all, while others feel unwell for a period of weeks.
Symptoms people sometimes describe include tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, stomach discomfort, dark urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). Because many conditions can cause similar symptoms, only a licensed clinician can tell what is going on after an evaluation.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Because the body's immune system typically clears the virus on its own, hepatitis A has traditionally been approached with supportive care rather than a specific antiviral medicine. This often means rest, staying hydrated, eating what one can, and being monitored by a clinician.
Clinicians have also traditionally encouraged people to avoid alcohol and to check with a provider before taking medicines or supplements, since the liver helps process many substances. What is appropriate for any one person is a decision for a licensed clinician.
Prevention has been a major part of the conversation. A hepatitis A vaccine exists and is FDA-approved, and good hygiene helps limit spread to others. Whether vaccination makes sense for a particular person is a conversation to have with a licensed clinician.
How the right doctor may help
The right doctor may help by confirming whether symptoms are actually related to hepatitis A, which generally involves a conversation about symptoms and possible exposures and may include blood tests. A doctor may also check how the liver is doing and talk through what to expect while recovering.
A visit is often a good time to ask practical questions. You might ask: How will we know the infection is clearing? Which of my medicines or supplements should I check on? When is it okay to return to work, school or child care? How can I protect people I live with?
A provider may also discuss vaccination for household members or others who may have been exposed, and whether any other liver screening is worth considering. These are possibilities to discuss, not promises, and the doctor decides what fits your situation.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Feeling run down for weeks can weigh on mood, sleep and motivation, and worry about a liver illness can in turn make recovery feel harder. Gentle routines, rest and support from people around you can be part of taking care of the whole person.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helpful for easing stress held in the body. Others value talking things through with a counselor, such as through Therapists.plus. These are optional complements to, not replacements for, care from a licensed doctor.
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed clinician can diagnose hepatitis A or decide what care is appropriate for you.
- This page is educational and does not provide medical advice, treatment plans or dosing.
- Call 911 for emergencies such as confusion, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or significant jaundice with fever; this site is not for emergencies.
- If you are in emotional crisis, call or text the 988 Lifeline.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the treatment for hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A treatment is generally supportive, meaning rest, fluids and monitoring, because the body usually clears the virus on its own. There is typically no specific antiviral medicine used. A licensed clinician decides what is right for each person.
Does hepatitis A go away on its own?
Yes, hepatitis A is generally an acute, self-limited infection that most people recover from without lasting liver damage. Recovery time varies from person to person. A doctor can help you understand how your own recovery is going.
Is hepatitis A a chronic disease like hepatitis B or C?
No, hepatitis A does not typically become chronic, unlike hepatitis B and C, which can become long-term infections. Those other types can be managed or treated with antiviral medication under a clinician's guidance. A doctor can explain the differences.
Is there a vaccine for hepatitis A?
Yes, a hepatitis A vaccine is available and FDA-approved. Whether it is appropriate for you or your family is something to discuss with a licensed clinician, who can consider your circumstances.
When should I see a doctor about possible hepatitis A?
Consider contacting a licensed clinician if you have symptoms such as persistent nausea, dark urine, unusual tiredness or yellowing of the skin or eyes, or if you think you were exposed. For severe symptoms like confusion, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or significant jaundice with fever, call 911.
How can I avoid spreading hepatitis A?
Careful handwashing, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food, is a key way to limit spread. Ask your provider for guidance on household members, work and school. They can also discuss vaccination for people around you.
Educational resource. Hep Programs shares general information and connects people with independent doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.