What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A. How is Hepatitis A diagnosed. What causes Hepatitis A. How can Hepatitis A be prevented. What is the best treatment for Hepatitis A. Who is at higher risk for Hepatitis A. How long does Hepatitis A last.

Understanding Hepatitis A: Causes and Transmission

Hepatitis A is a liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Unlike other forms of hepatitis, it rarely develops into chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis. The virus is highly contagious and spreads primarily through the fecal-oral route.

How does Hepatitis A transmission occur? The virus spreads when an uninfected person ingests food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected individual. This can happen through:

• Person-to-person contact
• Consuming contaminated food or water
• Sexual contact with an infected person

Interestingly, an infected person can spread the virus even before they show symptoms. Adults are typically contagious for about two weeks after the illness begins, while children and immunocompromised individuals may remain contagious for up to six months.

Recognizing Hepatitis A Symptoms: From Subtle to Severe

The incubation period for Hepatitis A ranges from 2 to 6 weeks. During this time, the virus silently multiplies in the body without causing noticeable symptoms. Once symptoms appear, they can vary from mild to severe.

What are the common symptoms of Hepatitis A? The most frequently reported symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Low-grade fever (up to 102°F)
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain, especially on the right side
• Dark-colored urine
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle pain

It’s important to note that symptom severity often correlates with age. Young children typically experience mild cases, while older children and adults are more likely to have severe symptoms. In some cases, infected individuals may not show any symptoms at all, yet they can still transmit the virus to others.

Diagnosing Hepatitis A: The Importance of Early Detection

Early diagnosis of Hepatitis A is crucial for proper management and preventing further spread of the virus. If you experience any symptoms associated with Hepatitis A, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

How is Hepatitis A diagnosed? The primary method for diagnosing Hepatitis A is through a blood test. This test can detect the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the hepatitis A virus. In some cases, additional liver function tests may be performed to assess the extent of liver inflammation.

Interpreting Hepatitis A Test Results

Understanding the results of a Hepatitis A blood test can be complex. Here’s a brief overview:

• Positive IgM anti-HAV: Indicates a current or recent infection
• Positive IgG anti-HAV: Suggests past infection or vaccination
• Negative for both IgM and IgG: No current infection or immunity

It’s important to discuss your test results with a healthcare provider for accurate interpretation and appropriate follow-up.

Hepatitis A Treatment: Managing Symptoms and Supporting Recovery

Unlike some other viral infections, there is no specific antiviral medication to treat Hepatitis A. The virus typically clears on its own as the body’s immune system fights off the infection. However, supportive care is crucial to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

What is the recommended treatment approach for Hepatitis A? The primary focus of treatment includes:

1. Rest: Allowing the body to focus energy on fighting the infection
2. Hydration: Replacing fluids lost through vomiting and to support liver function
3. Balanced nutrition: Eating a healthy diet to support immune function and liver health
4. Avoiding hepatotoxic substances: Abstaining from alcohol and certain medications that can strain the liver

In severe cases or when complications arise, hospitalization may be necessary. This allows for close monitoring and management of symptoms such as dehydration, severe pain, confusion, or bleeding problems.

Medications and Hepatitis A: What to Avoid

During Hepatitis A infection, the liver’s ability to process medications is compromised. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or supplements.

Which medications should be avoided during Hepatitis A infection? Particular caution should be exercised with:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Can exacerbate liver damage
• Alcohol: Strains the already inflamed liver
• Certain prescription medications: May need dose adjustments or temporary discontinuation

Always inform your healthcare provider about your Hepatitis A diagnosis to ensure safe and appropriate medication management.

Preventing Hepatitis A: Vaccination and Hygiene Practices

Prevention is key in controlling the spread of Hepatitis A. The most effective method of prevention is vaccination, but good hygiene practices also play a crucial role.

How can Hepatitis A be prevented effectively? The primary prevention strategies include:

1. Vaccination: The Hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective and recommended for all children over 1 year of age
2. Hand hygiene: Thorough handwashing with soap and warm water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food
3. Food safety: Properly washing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding raw or undercooked meat and fish
4. Safe water practices: In areas with poor sanitation, drink bottled or boiled water and avoid ice

Understanding the Hepatitis A Vaccine

The Hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent infection. It’s typically given in two doses, with the second dose administered 6-12 months after the first. Protection begins about 4 weeks after the initial dose.

Who should consider getting the Hepatitis A vaccine? The vaccine is recommended for:

• All children aged 12 months and older
• Travelers to countries where Hepatitis A is common
• Men who have sexual contact with men
• People with chronic liver diseases
• People who use illegal drugs
• People with occupational risk of exposure

Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if the Hepatitis A vaccine is appropriate for you.

High-Risk Groups for Hepatitis A: Identifying Vulnerable Populations

While anyone can contract Hepatitis A, certain groups are at higher risk of infection. Identifying these high-risk populations is crucial for targeted prevention efforts and early intervention.

Who is at increased risk for Hepatitis A infection? The following groups are considered high-risk:

• Travelers to countries where Hepatitis A is endemic
• Men who have sexual contact with men
• People who use illegal drugs (both injection and non-injection)
• Individuals with occupational risk of exposure (e.g., sewage workers, childcare employees)
• People experiencing homelessness
• Household members or caregivers of recent adoptees from countries where Hepatitis A is common

If you belong to any of these high-risk groups, it’s important to discuss preventive measures, including vaccination, with your healthcare provider.

Hepatitis A in Developing Countries

Hepatitis A is more prevalent in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Travelers to these areas should take extra precautions to avoid infection.

What precautions should travelers take in high-risk areas? Key preventive measures include:

1. Getting vaccinated before travel
2. Drinking only bottled or boiled water
3. Avoiding raw or undercooked foods
4. Practicing diligent hand hygiene
5. Using bottled water for brushing teeth

The Course of Hepatitis A: Understanding the Timeline

Hepatitis A typically follows a predictable course, although the duration and severity of symptoms can vary among individuals. Understanding the timeline of infection can help manage expectations and guide care strategies.

How long does Hepatitis A typically last? The general timeline of Hepatitis A infection is as follows:

1. Incubation period: 2-6 weeks after exposure
2. Prodromal phase: 3-7 days of non-specific symptoms like fatigue and nausea
3. Icteric phase: 2-3 weeks of more severe symptoms, including jaundice
4. Recovery phase: Gradual improvement over several weeks to months

Most healthy adults recover completely from Hepatitis A within 2-3 months. However, some individuals, particularly older adults or those with pre-existing liver conditions, may experience a more prolonged course of illness.

Long-Term Outlook for Hepatitis A Patients

Unlike some other forms of viral hepatitis, Hepatitis A does not lead to chronic liver disease. Once a person recovers from Hepatitis A, they develop antibodies that provide lifelong protection against the virus.

What are the potential long-term effects of Hepatitis A? In most cases, there are no long-term consequences. However, rare complications can include:

• Relapsing hepatitis: Symptoms return over a 6-9 month period
• Cholestatic hepatitis: Prolonged jaundice and itching
• Fulminant hepatitis: Severe, acute liver failure (very rare)

Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to monitor liver function and ensure complete recovery.

Hepatitis A in Special Populations: Considerations for Vulnerable Groups

While Hepatitis A affects people of all ages, certain populations may require special consideration in terms of prevention, diagnosis, and management. Understanding these nuances is crucial for healthcare providers and individuals alike.

Hepatitis A in Children

Children, especially those under 6 years old, often experience mild or no symptoms when infected with Hepatitis A. However, they can still spread the virus to others.

What are the unique aspects of Hepatitis A in children?

• Milder symptoms: Often mistaken for other childhood illnesses
• Longer period of infectivity: Can shed the virus for up to 6 months
• Importance of vaccination: Recommended for all children over 12 months

Hepatitis A in Pregnant Women

Pregnant women are not at increased risk for severe Hepatitis A. However, infection during pregnancy can have implications for both mother and fetus.

What should pregnant women know about Hepatitis A?

• No increased risk of birth defects
• Potential for preterm labor if infection occurs in the third trimester
• Vaccination is safe during pregnancy if indicated

Hepatitis A in Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems may experience more severe and prolonged Hepatitis A infections.

How does Hepatitis A affect immunocompromised individuals?

• Higher risk of severe complications
• Prolonged viral shedding
• May require closer monitoring and supportive care

Global Impact of Hepatitis A: Public Health Perspectives

Hepatitis A remains a significant public health concern globally, particularly in regions with limited access to clean water and poor sanitation. Understanding the global impact of this disease is crucial for implementing effective prevention and control strategies.

Epidemiology of Hepatitis A

The prevalence of Hepatitis A varies widely across different regions of the world. In areas with high endemicity, most children are infected at a young age and develop immunity. In contrast, developed countries with better sanitation have lower rates of childhood infection but may see outbreaks among adults.

What are the key epidemiological patterns of Hepatitis A globally?

• High endemicity: Common in parts of Africa and Asia
• Intermediate endemicity: Seen in parts of Eastern Europe and South America
• Low endemicity: Typical in North America, Western Europe, and Australia

Economic Impact of Hepatitis A

The economic burden of Hepatitis A extends beyond healthcare costs to include lost productivity and impact on tourism in endemic areas.

What are the primary economic consequences of Hepatitis A?

• Direct medical costs for treatment and hospitalization
• Lost work days due to illness
• Impact on food industry during outbreaks
• Costs associated with vaccination programs

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Hepatitis A Management

While Hepatitis A is well-understood in many aspects, ongoing research continues to shed light on new facets of the disease and potential improvements in prevention and treatment strategies.

Advances in Hepatitis A Diagnostics

Emerging diagnostic technologies aim to provide faster, more accurate detection of Hepatitis A virus.

What are some promising developments in Hepatitis A diagnostics?

• Rapid point-of-care tests for quick diagnosis
• Improved molecular techniques for virus detection
• Development of tests to differentiate between vaccine-induced and natural immunity

Novel Approaches to Hepatitis A Prevention

Research into new prevention strategies may offer additional tools to combat Hepatitis A transmission.

What innovative prevention methods are being explored for Hepatitis A?

• Development of long-lasting, single-dose vaccines
• Exploration of passive immunization strategies
• Research into antiviral compounds for post-exposure prophylaxis

As research progresses, our understanding of Hepatitis A continues to evolve, potentially leading to more effective prevention, diagnosis, and management strategies in the future.

Hepatitis A (Hep A) – Treatment

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a general term for inflammation of the liver. Normally, the liver breaks down waste products in your blood. But when the liver is inflamed, it doesn’t do a good job of getting rid of waste products. This causes waste products to build up in your blood and tissues.

Many different things can cause hepatitis. The most common cause of hepatitis is infection with one of the 5 hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, or E). Lack of blood supply to the liver, poison, autoimmune disorders, excessive alcohol use, liver injury, and taking certain medicines can also cause hepatitis. Less commonly, viral infections such as mononucleosis or cytomegalovirus can cause hepatitis.

There are 2 main kinds of hepatitis: acute hepatitis and chronic hepatitis. Most people get over the acute hepatitis in a few days or weeks. Sometimes, however, the inflammation doesn’t go away. When the inflammation doesn’t go away in 6 months, the person has chronic hepatitis.

What is hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A (Hep A) is liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis A is different from other types of hepatitis. It isn’t typically as serious as hepatitis B or C, and it doesn’t usually develop into chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis (late-stage scarring of the liver).

Hepatitis A is very contagious. This means that you can easily catch the virus from someone or give it to someone else. 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 who have a weak immune system may be contagious for up to 6 months.

Symptoms of hepatitis A

The hepatitis A virus is usually in your system for 2 to 6 weeks before symptoms appear. Some people never have symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they can appear suddenly and may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Jaundice (the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
• Low-grade fever (fever up to 102°F)
• Fatigue
• Pain in your abdomen, especially on your right side
• Dark-colored urine
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle pain

Young children are likely to have mild cases of hepatitis A, while symptoms in older children and adults are more likely to be severe.

What causes hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is caused by infection with the hepatitis A virus. You get the virus when you unknowingly eat a small amount of infected feces. This can happen through person-to-person contact, or through eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

A person can have and spread hepatitis A, even if that person does not have any symptoms. You are most likely to get hepatitis A from another person when:

• A person who has the virus does not wash their hands properly after going to the bathroom
• A parent does not wash their hands properly after changing the diaper of an infected child
• A caregiver does not wash their hands properly after cleaning up the stool of an infected person
• A person has sex with a person who has the virus

You can also get infected with hepatitis A by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. Contaminated food and water are more common in developing countries. When traveling in areas where hepatitis A is common, avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables, shellfish, ice, and untreated water.

How is hepatitis A diagnosed?

See your doctor if you have any of the symptoms of hepatitis A. They can do a blood test to see if you have the disease.

Hepatitis A treatment

There is no specific medicine to treat or cure hepatitis A. If you have the virus, your body will eventually get rid of the infection on its own. You probably will feel sick for a few months before you begin to feel better.

To help your liver heal, you should get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet and avoid alcohol and acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol). Talk with your doctor before you take any prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or supplements. Alcohol, acetaminophen, and certain other medicines, vitamins, and supplements can cause more damage to your liver.

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

Can hepatitis A be prevented or avoided?

The best way to protect yourself against hepatitis A is to get the vaccine. The hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all children older than age 1. It begins to protect you only 4 weeks after you are vaccinated. A 6- to 12-month booster is required for long-term protection. Ask your doctor if the vaccination is right for you.

You should also 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.

You are at higher risk for hepatitis A if you:

• Live with or have sex with someone who has hepatitis A
• Travel to countries where hepatitis A is common
• Are a man who has sex with other men
• Use illegal drugs
• Have a clotting-factor disorder (such as hemophilia)

Living with hepatitis A

Once you recover from hepatitis A, you develop antibodies that protect you from the virus for life, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Do I need treatment?
• What treatment is best for me?
• Will I need be hospitalized?
• Are there any medicines I should avoid taking?
• Are there foods I should avoid eating?
• Can I drink alcohol?
• How can I protect my family from getting hepatitis A?
• If I’ve had hepatitis A, am I at higher risk of getting other types of hepatitis?
• Will I have permanent liver damage?
• How soon before I travel should I be vaccinated?

Resources

American Liver Foundation: Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A and E Treatment

Hepatitis A and E Treatment | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Hepatitis A and E usually resolve after a period of four to eight weeks. They do not cause chronic hepatitis, and in most cases, no special treatment is necessary unless your immune system is suppressed and/or you have had a solid organ transplantation. You are not confined to bed while you recuperate. Once the jaundice disappears, you can safely return to work. We will discuss with you whether you need special treatment or medication.

Hepatitis A and E Prevention

Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all adults who are considered at risk, which include those traveling to areas where hepatitis A is common, those who use injections for medications, people who use illegal drugs, men who have sex with men, patients who already have chronic liver disease, health care workers and food handlers.

If you believe you were exposed to hepatitis A and have not been vaccinated, we can treat you with immune globulin, which is used to prevent the disease shortly after exposure. Immune globulin can be also given to those who are allergic to the hepatitis A vaccine or prefer not to get vaccinated. One dose of immune globulin can provide temporary protection up to three months.

Hepatitis E: Currently there are no vaccines against the hepatitis E virus, although much research is underway for development. If you are traveling to a country where hepatitis E is widespread, avoid contaminated food and water sources. A vaccination against hepatitis A may not protect you against hepatitis E.

Hepatitis A and E Complications

Rarely, the disease does not resolve, and you may experience complications from hepatitis. Fulminant hepatitis or acute liver failure is rarely associated with hepatitis A and E. A patient with fulminant hepatitis begins to deteriorate rapidly and may present with confusion (hepatic encephalopathy). This is seen in patients with chronic liver disease or people during pregnancy. There is even a risk of coma and liver and kidney failure.

This condition is rare. Careful management and thorough care provide the best hope for recovery. Liver transplantation may be lifesaving.

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Related Topics

Hepatitis A: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease caused by a virus.

The hepatitis A virus has an acid-resistant envelope. This helps viruses that have entered contaminated food and water to pass the acidic protective barrier of the stomach. The hepatitis A virus is stable in the aquatic environment, so epidemics of hepatitis A are often transmitted by water. The hepatitis A virus is highly immunogenic, after the illness, a stable lifelong immunity is formed.
Hepatitis A is one of the most common human infections. In countries with warm climates and poor sanitation, hepatitis A is very common. It is known that in Central Asia almost all children are ill with hepatitis A. In Eastern Europe, the incidence of hepatitis A is 250 per 100,000 population per year.
The source of infection for is a person with hepatitis A who sheds billions of viruses into the environment through faeces. When drinking water or food contaminated with the hepatitis A virus (especially poorly thermally processed seafood), the viruses enter the intestines, then, being absorbed, they enter the liver with the blood stream and invade its cells – hepatocytes. Virus particles-virions multiply in the cytoplasm of liver cells. After leaving the liver cells, they enter the bile ducts and are excreted with bile into the intestines. The inflammatory process in the liver, leading to damage to hepatocytes, has an immunological basis. Cells of the human immune system, T-lymphocytes, recognize virus-infected hepatocytes and attack them. This leads to the death of infected hepatocytes, the development of inflammation (hepatitis) and impaired liver function.
Hepatitis A virus is transmitted by faecal-oral-water and ingestion. Hepatitis A is most likely to be contracted in hot countries, including those where traditional places of tourism and recreation are located. First of all, these are the countries of Africa (including Egypt and Tunisia), Asia (Turkey, Central Asia, India and Southeast Asia, including the islands), some countries of South America and the Caribbean. Hepatitis A is primarily a childhood infection. Many children carry the infection in an anicteric form and hepatitis A is not recognized during this period.
In developed countries, hepatitis A, also called “dirty hands disease “, is difficult to get sick due to the high culture of the population and the excellent work of communal services. Therefore, there are very few people who have antibodies to this infection, and the risk of getting sick upon contact with the hepatitis A virus is quite high. More often this happens during business trips and tourist trips to hot countries, to African and Asian resorts, to the republics of Central Asia.

When buying vegetables and fruits in the market, do not forget to wash them properly , always cook seafood.
Healthy people can be in contact with the sick, observing the elementary rules of hygiene. However, it is better to isolate children from patients.

To determine the likelihood and degree of risk of infection with , but rather to decide whether vaccination is necessary, a blood test for the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis A virus of the immunoglobulin G class ( anti – HAV IgG ) is carried out. If these antibodies are found in the blood, then contact with the virus was: infection or vaccination. This means that you have immunity to the virus, which means that the risk of infection is zero and vaccination against hepatitis A is not needed. It is almost impossible to get hepatitis A again. If there are no antibodies, then there is a risk. You need a vaccination. There is a special drug – immunoglobulin, which can be administered immediately before a possible infection or within 2 weeks after infection. This will allow for a short time to protect either from infection or from the development of the disease in case of infection.

Risk of contracting hepatitis A , and when vaccination is necessary (vaccination against hepatitis A):

• Family members (household) of a person infected with hepatitis A virus

• Persons who have sex with an infected person

• People (especially children) living in areas with a high prevalence of hepatitis A

• Travelers traveling to countries with a high incidence of hepatitis A

What if there is a patient with hepatitis A in the family?

It is recommended that all family members be screened for antibodies to hepatitis A (anti-HAV IgG). In the absence of these antibodies, vaccination is necessary. Remember to follow the simplest rules of hygiene: wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet and using the bathroom, after caring for a small child, before eating and preparing food.

Hepatitis A clinic

Within a month (incubation period 15-50 days, on average 30) after the alleged infection, you can expect the main symptoms: fever, dyspepsia (nausea, vomiting, heaviness in the stomach and right hypochondrium), weakness, darkening urine (the color of strong brewed tea, frothiness) and then jaundice – yellowing of the sclera, skin, discoloration of feces. After the onset of jaundice, the general condition often improves slightly. Jaundice lasts about 3-6 weeks, sometimes longer. The disease lasts on average about 40 days. This largely depends on age, the state of immunity, the presence of concomitant chronic diseases, and the strict implementation of the doctor’s recommendations. Some people (about 15%) have a long-term course of hepatitis A, within 6-9months. Recovery usually follows. Most cases of hepatitis A have typical symptoms, leading to recovery.

Infection is severe in children under one year of age , adults and the elderly. In adults, the infection often proceeds with severe intoxication and jaundice, on average they get sick for about 3 months. The risk of death in hepatitis A is 0.1% in children, 0.3% in adolescents and adults. All acute hepatitis of any origin are manifested by the same signs, so you need to see a doctor and conduct a full examination.

Diagnosis of hepatitis A

In addition to collecting an epidemiological history (where the person was during the last month, what he ate, what water he drank, whether he had contact with patients with jaundice, etc.) and examination, test results are required (complete blood count, biochemical blood tests, analysis for markers of viral hepatitis, coagulogram, urinalysis).

The criterion for the diagnosis of acute hepatitis A is the presence in human blood of antibodies to hepatitis A, related to class M immunoglobulins (anti – HAV IgM). These antibodies are found only in the acute period, with recovery, their titer decreases.

Hepatitis A treatment

Modern treatment is more focused not on fighting hepatitis A viruses, but on reducing the concentration and removal from the body of harmful substances that appear when the liver is damaged and functions are impaired. Therefore, detoxification solutions, glucose, vitamins, hepatoprotectors (drugs that protect liver cells) are administered. The decision to prescribe special antiviral therapy is made by the doctor. Hepatitis A ends with recovery.
The prognosis is favorable, liver function is usually fully restored. In the acute period, it is necessary to adhere to a sparing diet, physical and mental rest is observed.

Prevention of hepatitis A, vaccination

Quite effective vaccines have been developed to protect against hepatitis A. These vaccines are killed hepatitis A viruses and are highly immunogenic. The vaccine is administered twice with an interval of 6-12 months. After the first dose of the vaccine, antibodies to the hepatitis A virus appear in most vaccinated people after 2 weeks. The duration of protection by vaccination is at least 6-10 years.

Hepatitis A vaccination is indicated for children over 3 years of age and adults who have not previously had hepatitis A, as well as people with an increased risk of infection: – traveling to areas with a high level of hepatitis A transmission (tourists, contractors, military personnel) – medical personnel of infectious departments – educators and staff of preschool institutions – catering and water supply workers. – Patients with chronic liver disease. According to the regulations of the Ministry of Health, children living in areas with a high incidence of hepatitis A are subject to vaccination.

Attention! Consult a doctor for vaccination!

Hepatitis A treatment – signs, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention

Hepatitis A

Table of contents 35

Viral hepatitis A is an infectious disease that affects the liver, occurs in an acute form and is accompanied by short-term symptoms. Jaundice, hepatitis a, Botkin’s disease in everyday life are synonymous.

Causes of hepatitis A

The causative agent of hepatitis A is a virus that multiplies in the liver cells. More than 60% of patients are children of 3-7 years of age. The disease often takes the form of epidemic outbreaks.

How hepatitis a is contracted: this is a classic intestinal infection, so you can become infected by drinking contaminated water or food, and not observing hygiene rules.

Hepatitis A virus is excreted in the feces of patients, as well as carriers of infection or patients with an erased form of the disease. Getting into the gastrointestinal tract of a healthy person, it penetrates through the blood into hepatocytes and destroys them. The disease proceeds only in an acute form and ends with recovery. In almost all adults, antibodies are found in the blood, indicating an infection.

It is impossible to infect a child through blood, sexual contact and from the mother.

The incidence increases in autumn and winter, and in the summer months, cases of the disease are rarely recorded. After infection, lifelong immunity remains.

Symptoms of viral hepatitis A

Acute hepatitis A occurs in stages.

• The incubation period is from 2 weeks to a month. There are no symptoms of hepatitis A, but there is already a virus in the blood and abnormal liver function is determined.
• The preicteric period lasts from 3 to 8 days. Symptoms of hepatitis a in children occur acutely: the temperature rises, intoxication occurs, severe weakness, nausea, pain in the liver, headache, sleep and stool disturbances. Children become moody and irritable. After 1 – 2 days, the temperature decreases, and the patient’s condition improves somewhat. Adults at this time may experience the same symptoms, but in a milder form.
• The icteric period lasts up to 2 weeks. At the same time, the signs of hepatitis a weaken, the state of health of most patients returns to normal. Darkening of urine and discoloration of feces, jaundice is determined. The liver is enlarged.
• The post-icteric period lasts quite a long time. At this time, there is a gradual recovery of the liver.

The convalescence period lasts up to 3 months. At this time, patients feel quite healthy, sometimes complain of fatigue, abdominal pain. In the blood, an increase in the activity of liver enzymes is periodically determined.

The course of the disease can be acute (in 95% of cases), protracted, with exacerbations, with biliary dyskinesia and other complications. Therefore, in each case, the approach to the treatment of such a patient is individual.

Diagnosis of hepatitis A

In addition to epidemiological and clinical data, diagnosis of hepatitis A includes:

• biochemical blood test to determine the activity of liver enzymes and the level of bilirubin;
• hepatitis a test – detection of viral antigen by PCR or IgM class antibodies to it.

Hepatitis A treatment

Hepatitis A treatment is usually done at home. Only patients with severe forms of the disease are hospitalized. Bed rest is recommended in the first days until you feel better, then it gradually expands.

Hepatitis A diet includes:

• proteins: dairy products, lean meat and fish, scrambled eggs;
• fats: butter, olive, sunflower oil;
• carbohydrates: rice, oatmeal, buckwheat, potatoes, pasta, sugar, vegetables, juices, fruits;
• allowed salads, vinaigrette, honey, marshmallow, jam, prunes, dried apricots, raisins, bread.

Prohibited:

• pork, other fatty meats, poultry or fish;
• canned food;
• sausage;
• legumes;
• confectionery and chocolate;
• marinades and spices;
• garlic, radish, spicy cheese, mayonnaise and other foods that irritate the digestive tract.

Cholagogues, vitamins, essential phospholipids, ursosan, enterosorbents are prescribed. Antiviral drugs and antibiotics are not used.

Traditional methods of treatment:

• infusion of valerian, hawthorn and mint;
• infusion of immortelle, yarrow, wormwood and dill;
• infusion of wild rose and rowan berries;
• raw potato juice.

Hepatitis A prophylaxis

There is non-specific and specific prophylaxis for hepatitis A. Anti-epidemic measures:

• when a case of illness is detected, all contact persons are examined and their blood is taken for analysis for early detection of the epidemic;
• current and final disinfection is carried out in the focus of the disease, the quality of water and food is carefully monitored;
• ready-made antibodies in the form of immunoglobulin are administered to those in contact with the patient.

Immunoglobulin is not a hepatitis A vaccine, but only a measure to support the body’s defense against the virus. It is administered in the first 7 days after the diagnosis of the disease in the focus.

The only way to reliably protect a child from the virus is the hepatitis A vaccine. Domestic preparations are allowed for use, as well as the vaccines Havrix, Avaxim, Vakta, Twinrix. They are well tolerated and rarely cause adverse reactions, mainly in allergic children.

Children are vaccinated against hepatitis A at one year of age, and then again after 6 to 12 months. This scheme provides reliable immunity in 95% of those vaccinated.

Benefits of the Mama Papa Ya Clinic

If a child is ill with viral hepatitis A, the Mama Papa Z family clinic network offers services for the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Our advantages:

• a large network of clinic branches in Moscow and other cities;
• reasonable prices for services;
• thorough laboratory diagnosis of the disease;
• prescribing modern medicines for speedy recovery;
• nutritionist consultation;
• the possibility of vaccinating patients of any age with modern drugs;
• dispensary observation of a sick person in comfortable conditions, without queues.

To make an appointment for a consultation, you can call the clinic or leave a request on our website.

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The Mama Papa Ya clinic in Lyubertsy is very good. The team is friendly and responsive. I recommend this clinic to all my friends. Thanks to all doctors and administrators. I wish the clinic prosperity and many adequate clients.

Iratiev V.V.

Visited the clinic “Mama Papa Ya” with a child. I needed a consultation with a pediatric cardiologist. I liked the clinic. Good service doctors. We didn’t stand in line, everything was the same price.

Evgenia

I liked the first visit. I was carefully examined, additional examinations were prescribed, and good recommendations were given. I will continue the treatment further, I liked the conditions in the clinic.

Kristina

The doctor carefully examined my husband, ordered an ECG and made a preliminary diagnosis. She made recommendations about our situation and ordered additional examinations.