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DIGESTIVE SERVICES

Diagnosis & Treatment

Hepatitis A

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How is Hepatitis A Diagnosed?

Diagnosis

A blood test is the most widely used way to determine if the hepatitis A virus exists in your body. Your doctor may order a hepatitis A IgM (immunoglobulin M) antibodies blood test. These antibodies are present when your body is exposed to hepatitis A and will remain in the blood for 3 to 6 months.

How is Hepatitis A Treated?

Treatment

There is no official cure or treatment for hepatitis A. However, except for rare cases, the virus doesn't appear to cause long-term damage.

Symptoms of hepatitis A usually begin to improve after a few weeks without medical intervention. So, there is little need for over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen, anti-vomiting, and other pain reliever medications.

While recovering from hepatitis A, it is a good idea to:

  • Avoid alcohol
  • Eat a balanced and healthy diet
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid or limit taking over-the-counter medications

FAQs

FAQs

The virus that causes hepatitis A doesn't lead to long-term damage, and the body can heal within six months.

Raw vegetables, water, shellfish, and fruit from countries other than the U.S. are commonly at risk for potentially carrying hepatitis A.

Hepatitis A is highly contagious, and infected individuals can unknowingly spread the virus because it can take about two weeks before symptoms are noticeable.

 

This content has been reviewed by the following medical editors.

Danielle Brandman, MD

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Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Hepatitis A Treatment

Hepatitis A symptoms can appear about two weeks after exposure. Abdominal pain, flu-like symptoms, and loss of appetite are just a few things to be mindful of. At NewYork-Presbyterian, our specialists assess and treat hepatitis A and other infections. Call us today to schedule an appointment.