Hepatitis A & E
what is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is one of the most common liver infections caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It mainly affects the age group from 1 to 14 years and is often asymptomatic. However, its severity increases with age. The virus is spread by the fecal-oral route through contaminated water and food. It can be spread through poor hygiene or close contact with another infected person.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis A?
- fever
- malaise
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea
- nausea
- abdominal discomfort
- dark-coloured urine and jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin )
How is Hepatitis A diagnosed?
Hepatitis A can be diagnosed by looking at common symptoms. The doctors may know if you are infected with the hepatitis A virus? Our bodies produce antibodies against the virus, IgM Anti HAV (ELISA), which become positive within a few weeks and are the test of choice.
What is the treatment of Hepatitis A?
Sometimes a patient requires hospitalization for symptoms such as nausea, dehydration, prolonged jaundice, encephalopathy, and/or coagulopathy. In case of fulminant liver failure due to hepatitis A, a liver transplant is required.
What is Hepatitis E?
The hepatitis E virus is mainly spread through drinking water contaminated with faeces. Symptoms include jaundice, loss of appetite, and nausea. In rare cases, it can progress to severe liver failure. Hepatitis E usually goes away on its own within four to six weeks. Treatment focuses on supportive care, rehydration, and rest.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis E?
- jaundice
- loss of appetite
- fever
- malaise
- diarrhoea
- nausea
- abdominal discomfort
- dark-coloured urine and jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin )
How is Hepatitis E diagnosed?
Hepatitis E can be diagnosed by looking at common symptoms. How can doctors know if you are infected with the hepatitis E virus? Our body produces IgM and IgG antibodies to HEV against the virus. IgM antibodies to HEV can be detected during the first months of HEV infection. However, IgG antibodies to HEV indicate either recent or delayed exposure. Book free consultation with Dr. liver transplant, one of the best Liver Surgeon in India.
What is the treatment of Hepatitis E?
Patients are often advised to rest or treated by symptomatic. Sometimes a patient requires hospitalization for symptoms such as nausea, dehydration, prolonged jaundice, encephalopathy, and/or coagulopathy. In case of fulminant liver failure due to hepatitis A, a liver transplant is required.
- Feeling unwell generally
- Jaundice or apprears yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Frequent gassy sensation
- Confusion
- Fluid retention
- Dark urine
- Loss of appetite
- sudden weight loss
- Vomiting blood
- Itching
- Loss of muscle and muscle weakness