Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable, highly contagious communicable disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is usually transmitted person-to-person through the fecal-oral route or consumption of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis A is a self-limited disease that does not result in chronic infection. Antibodies produced in response to hepatitis A infection last for life and protect against reinfection. The best way to prevent hepatitis A infection is to get vaccinated.
A sample of blood is taken, usually from a vein in your arm, and is sent to a laboratory for testing.
No specific treatment exists for hepatitis A. In most cases of hepatitis A, the liver heals within six months with no lasting damage.
You may manage symptoms through:
- Rest. Many people with hepatitis A infection feel tired and sick and have less energy.
- Treat nausea. Nausea can make it difficult to eat. Try snacking throughout the day rather than eating full meals. To get enough calories, eat more high-calorie foods. For instance, drink fruit juice or milk rather than water. Drinking plenty of fluids is important to prevent dehydration if vomiting occurs.
- Avoid alcohol and use medications with care. Your liver may have difficulty processing medications and alcohol. If you have hepatitis, don’t drink alcohol. It can cause more liver damage. Talk to your doctor about all the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs.
MEDICATION DISPENSED THROUGH FOSRX/FAST:
- Gamastan S/D
Drug information for this condition is made available by Factor One Source FAST Pharmacy upon request by emailing firstname.lastname@example.org directly, or by submitting an inquiry through our Contact Page.
- 10 Dec 2017
- FOSRX/FAST Services