Treatment for Hepatitis A

Treatment of Hepatitis A

Mild cases of Hepatitis A don't require treatment, and most people who are infected recover completely with no permanent liver damage. Unlike Hepatitis B and C, Hepatitis A doesn't develop into chronic Hepatitis or cirrhosis. 

As no specific treatment exists for Hepatitis A, the main focus is on providing adequate nutrition and avoiding any permanent liver damage. As the patient is nauseated, eating small portions through the day instead of three large meals helps. Soft, easily digested food such as soup or fruit juice is advised. Food is tolerated better in the morning than later in the day. Alcohol should be avoided during the acute phase of illness. 

Silymarin is a drug which may aid in healing and rebuilding the liver. Silymarin seems to stimulate the production of antioxidant enzymes that help the liver neutralise toxins. It also seems to increase the production of new liver cells and may even improve the severe scarring of cirrhosis. But although it can help the liver, it won't cure Hepatitis. 

Outcome

Hepatitis A will clear up on its own in a few weeks or months with no serious after - effects. Once recovered, an individual is then immune for life to the virus through the presence of the 1gG antibody. About 1 in 100 HAV sufferers may experience a sudden and severe ( i.e. 'fulminant') infection. 

Prevention

Hepatitis A is highly contagious. Preventing the spread of the virus involves protecting self and others from infection. 

Self-protection

The following measures provide protection from Hepatitis A viral infection : 

Injections of immune globulin ( IG) shot. An IG shot can provide temporary immunity to the virus for 2-3 months when given prior to exposure to Hepatitis A virus or within 2 weeks after exposure. 
Ask for the Hepatitis A vaccine. It is made form inactive Hepatitis A virus and is highly effective in preventing the infection. However, its safety when given during pregnancy has not been determined. The vaccine provides protection for about four weeks after the first injection; a second injection provides protection up to 20 years. 

Who should have the Vaccine?

All children
Users of illegal drugs
Individuals who have chronic liver disease or blood clotting disorders ( e.g. haemophilia). 
Those who have close physical contact with people who live in areas with poor sanitary conditions. 
Men who have sex with other men. 
People who have chronic liver disease. 
Laboratory workers who handle live Hepatitis A virus. 

If a person had already had Hepatitis A, he won't need to be immunized because he must have developed protective antibodies.

Symptoms of Hepatitis A
Complications of Hepatitis A
Treatment for Hepatitis A
Safety Precautions for Hepatitis A