What Is Hepatitis A?
An acute, self-limiting viral liver infection transmitted via the fecal-oral route.
Why Do I Need Evaluation?
You may present with:
- Abrupt jaundice, fatigue, nausea
- Recent travel, shellfish ingestion, or exposure to infected contact
How Should I Prepare?
- Blood tests: HAV IgM antibodies, liver panel.
- No special imaging prep.
What Happens During Care?
- Supportive: rest, hydration, nutritional support.
- Avoid hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., acetaminophen).
- No specific antiviral therapy.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
- Recovery in 2–6 weeks without chronic infection.
- Lifelong immunity develops.
Risks & Possible Complications
- Rare fulminant hepatitis (<1%)
- Prolonged cholestatic phase (jaundice, itching)
Follow-Up
- Follow liver tests until normalization.
No routine imaging required.
