How to Treat Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a type of liver infection that you can get from ingesting contaminated food and water. This condition is caused by Hepatitis A virus. Here are some things you should know to treat Hepatitis A effectively.
Causes:
Ingestion of dirty foods and water.
Close contact with someone infected with the virus, like having sex with an infected person.
Symptoms:
The difference of Hepatitis A from the other Hepatitis infections is that it doesn’t lead to chronic infection of the liver. Most people who got infected with the Hepatitis A virus heal completely without damaging the liver too much. Some also don’t show signs of the infection. Here are some symptoms you may need to watch out for if you suspect hepatitis A infection.
Fatigue
Nausea and Vomiting
Loss of Appetite
Pain on the right side of your abdomen
Jaundice
Muscle pain
Itching and Rash
Fever
Dark colored urine
Diagnosis:
The diagnostic test done to determine the presence of hepatitis A virus in your body is blood test.
You may also be tested for the antibody of Hepatitis A virus. This test will show if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
A test for Hepatitis B and C may also be done.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for this condition. The management of this disease depends on the symptoms that you have. If you’ve been exposed to the virus, you may avoid the disease by having yourself injected with immune globulin within 2 weeks of exposure to the virus.
Home Care:
Rest. Fatigue can easily be managed by getting enough rest. Avoid stressful activities. Don’t force yourself to do something when you’re too tired.
Have small frequent meals to lessen nausea and vomiting. You might not have the appetite to eat, so try soft easy to digest foods, like soup and bread.
Check the medicines you take regularly. Avoid those that have bad effects on the liver, like Acetaminophen. Avoid drinking alcohol as it also damages the liver.
Wash your hands properly when preparing food and eating.
Avoid eating raw foods. Cook your food well.