Hepatitis A Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation in the liver. It’s caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and is highly contagious, meaning it can easily spread from one person to another, especially in places with poor sanitation and hygiene. When you’re infected with hepatitis A, your liver becomes inflamed, which affects how well it can do its job, like removing toxins from your blood, helping digest food, and storing energy. The virus doesn’t stay in your body forever, though. In most cases, people with hepatitis A recover completely without any long-term damage to their liver.
How Common is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a widespread infection that still affects millions of people around the world every year. It is especially common in developing countries, where clean water, good sanitation, and proper hygiene are limited. The virus spreads easily in places where people may eat contaminated food or drink unsafe water. In India, hepatitis A continues to be a serious public health concern. Although improvements in sanitation and awareness have helped reduce the number of cases in some cities, outbreaks still happen, particularly in areas where:
People rely on untreated drinking water
Sewage systems are poor or broken
Food is handled without proper hygiene
People live in crowded or shared spaces
The disease can affect anyone, but it’s most common in children and young adults, especially those who have not been vaccinated. In many cases, children infected with hepatitis A may show no symptoms, which means the virus can spread quietly from one person to another. According to health experts, seasonal outbreaks often occur during the monsoon season in India, when flooding can contaminate water supplies. Street food and unwashed food products are also common sources of infection during these times. Thanks to vaccination programs and growing public awareness, the number of hepatitis A cases is slowly declining in some areas. However, millions of people are still at risk, especially in places where sanitation is a daily challenge.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hepatitis A?
The symptoms of Hepatitis A usually appear 2 to 7 weeks after exposure to the virus. This period is called the incubation period. Some people, especially young children, may not show any symptoms at all, but they can still spread the virus to others. For those who do experience symptoms, they can range from mild to severe and usually develop suddenly. Here's a closer look at the most common signs and symptoms :
Fever: One of the first signs is a mild to moderate fever, as your body starts to fight off the infection.
Fatigue: You may feel unusually tired or weak, even after resting. This happens because your liver is inflamed and not functioning properly.
Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach and vomiting is common. This is your body’s way of reacting to liver inflammation.
Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort, especially in the upper right side of your abdomen (where your liver is located), is a key symptom.
Loss of Appetite: People with hepatitis A often lose interest in food, which can lead to unintentional weight loss during the illness.
Dark Urine: Urine may turn dark yellow or brown, similar to the colour of tea or cola. This is due to bilirubin, a substance that builds up in your blood when your liver isn’t working well.
Pale or Clay-Colored Stool: When your liver isn’t producing bile normally, your stool may look lighter than usual, almost grey or clay-colored.
Jaundice (Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes): This is one of the most well-known signs of hepatitis. Jaundice happens when bilirubin builds up in the body. It makes your skin and the whites of your eyes look yellow.
What Causes Hepatitis A and How is it Contracted?
It’s a liver infection caused by a virus, specifically the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). The good news is, it doesn’t usually cause long-term liver problems like Hepatitis B or C can, but it can make you feel pretty sick for a few weeks. In some rare cases, especially for older adults, it can lead to serious complications.
Hepatitis A mostly spreads through the faecal-oral route. That sounds gross, but it means you can get it if you accidentally swallow even tiny traces of poop from an infected person. That usually happens when food, water, or hands get contaminated. Here are some common causes of Hepatitis A:
Contaminated Food or Water
This is probably the most common way. Imagine someone who has the virus doesn’t wash their hands after going to the bathroom, then prepares food. If you eat that food, you could end up infected.Same goes for water if it’s not properly treated or it’s contaminated with sewage, drinking it can expose you to the virus. Even ice cubes can be risky in some places.
Close Contact with Someone Who Has It
You can also get Hepatitis A if you live with or are in close contact with someone who’s infected. It spreads pretty easily, even before the person feels sick. Things like hugging, sharing utensils, or having sex with someone who’s infected can pass it along.
Poor Hand Hygiene
Not washing hands properly—especially after using the toilet or changing diapers—is a big one. If those germs get on food, surfaces, or your mouth, you could get infected. It’s a reminder of how important handwashing is.
Eating Raw or Undercooked Shellfish
Shellfish like oysters or clams can pick up the virus from polluted water. If they’re not cooked thoroughly, the virus survives, and if you eat them, it can make you sick.
What are Hepatitis A Risk Factors?
Hepatitis A spreads easily, especially in places or situations where sanitation is poor and hygiene is overlooked. While anyone can get it, some people face a much higher risk based on where they live, how they work, or certain lifestyle factors. You’re more likely to get Hepatitis A if:
Travel to or live in areas with poor sanitation
If you’re visiting or living in countries where clean water and proper sewage systems are lacking, you’re at a higher risk. Hepatitis A is more common in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and the Middle East. In these places, the virus can easily spread through contaminated water, food, or surfaces.
Eat street food or drink unclean water
If you eat food from vendors who don’t follow good hygiene practices, or if you drink untreated water, you could accidentally ingest the virus. Even something as simple as ice made from tap water can put you at risk in certain areas.
Live with or care for someone infected
If you’re in close contact with someone who has Hepatitis A, like sharing a home, caring for them while they’re sick, or changing diapers, you can catch the virus through shared surfaces or poor hand hygiene.
Use recreational drugs
People who use drugs, whether injected or not, are more likely to contract Hepatitis A. That’s because drug use often involves close contact and shared equipment, both of which can spread the virus especially when hygiene is not a priority.
Work in child care or food services
Child care workers often come into contact with diapers and young children who might carry the virus without showing symptoms. Meanwhile, food handlers can spread the virus if they don’t wash their hands thoroughly after using the bathroom or handling contaminated items.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Hepatitis A is often mild and clears up on its own, but there are times when it’s important to see a doctor promptly especially to confirm the diagnosis, monitor liver health, and prevent complications.Here’s a breakdown of when you should seek medical attention:
You Notice Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin or Eyes)
Jaundice is one of the most visible signs of Hepatitis A. It happens when your liver is inflamed and can’t process bilirubin properly, leading to a yellow tint in your skin or eyes.If you notice yellowing, dark urine, or pale stools, see a doctor right away. These are classic signs of liver stress and need to be evaluated.
You Feel Very Tired or Weak for More Than a Few Days
Fatigue is normal with Hepatitis A but if you're too tired to function or if the fatigue lasts longer than expected, it's a good idea to get checked out. Ongoing or worsening fatigue could signal that your liver is struggling or that complications are developing.
You Have Severe Vomiting or Abdominal Pain
Occasional nausea is common, but frequent or uncontrollable vomiting can lead to dehydration which is dangerous, especially during a liver infection. If you’re unable to keep fluids down, or you have sharp pain in the upper right abdomen (where the liver is located), don’t wait to see a doctor immediately.
You Were in Close Contact With Someone Who Has Hepatitis A
If you’ve recently been around someone diagnosed with Hepatitis A (such as a family member, roommate, or coworker), you may have been exposed even if you don’t feel sick yet.In some cases, your doctor may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis, which includes the Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin injection within 14 days of exposure to prevent infection.
You're Pregnant and Show Any Hepatitis A Symptoms
Pregnancy puts extra strain on your body, and an infection like Hepatitis A though usually mild can cause complications.If you’re pregnant and experience nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or jaundice, let your healthcare provider know right away. Early monitoring and supportive care can help protect both you and your baby.
Who is at Higher Risk of Developing Complications from Hepatitis A?
Some groups may not be more likely to catch Hepatitis A, but they’re at a higher risk of experiencing severe illness if they do get it.
Young Children
Children under 6 often show no symptoms at all, but they can still spread the virus to others, especially in group settings like daycares. That makes them both vulnerable carriers and a key part of how outbreaks happen.
Unvaccinated Adults
If you haven’t been vaccinated and you’re exposed to the virus, you’re at risk. Adults tend to get sicker from Hepatitis A than children do, and symptoms can last for weeks or even months.
Pregnant Women
Pregnancy changes the immune system, and while Hepatitis A isn’t known to cause birth defects, it can still lead to serious complications for both mother and baby, especially if the infection is severe.
People With Chronic Liver Disease
If you already have liver problems—like Hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis Hepatitis A can hit your liver hard. In some cases, it can lead to liver failure. That’s why vaccination is strongly recommended for anyone with pre-existing liver issues.
International Travelers
If you're traveling to places where Hepatitis A is common and sanitation is poor, your chances of exposure go up. Even a short trip can lead to infection if you're not careful with what you eat or drink.
How is Hepatitis A Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects you might have Hepatitis A, they won’t rely on guesswork. Instead, they’ll use specific blood tests and liver function tests to confirm whether the virus is present and how it’s affecting your body.
Blood Tests to Detect the Virus or Antibodies
The first and most important way to diagnose Hepatitis A is through blood work. Here’s what they look for:
Anti-HAV IgM (Immunoglobulin M) Antibodies
This test detects antibodies your body produces in response to a new or recent Hepatitis A infection.
If this test is positive, it usually means you’re currently infected or were infected very recently.
It's the primary test used to confirm an active Hepatitis A infection.
Anti-HAV IgG (Immunoglobulin G) Antibodies
This test shows whether you’ve had Hepatitis A in the past or if you've been vaccinated.
A positive result means you’re immune to the virus, either from a past infection or from vaccination.
It's not used to diagnose a current infection, but it helps determine your immunity status.
Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
If you have symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, or nausea, your doctor will also run liver function tests to check how well your liver is working. These tests measure certain enzymes and proteins in your blood. When your liver is inflamed or damaged (as it is during a Hepatitis A infection), these levels usually rise:
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) – These are enzymes that leak into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged. High levels suggest liver inflammation.
Bilirubin – A yellow pigment that builds up when your liver isn’t processing it properly. High levels can lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) – Another enzyme that may be elevated during liver or bile duct issues.
When Does Testing Happen?
If you show typical symptoms—like nausea, dark urine, yellowing skin, or abdominal pain—your doctor may immediately recommend testing, especially if:
You’ve travelled recently to an area with poor sanitation
You’ve been in contact with someone who has Hepatitis A
You work in food service, child care, or healthcare
You’re part of a local outbreak
How is Hepatitis A Treated?
Unlike some other types of hepatitis, Hepatitis A doesn’t have a specific antiviral treatment. That’s because it’s caused by a virus that your body usually clears on its own. In most cases, the infection is short-term (acute) and people recover fully without lasting liver damage. So, treatment for Hepatitis A mainly focuses on supporting your body while it fights off the virus.
Rest is Key
Your body needs time and energy to heal, and Hepatitis A can leave you feeling extremely tired and weak. Many people experience fatigue, muscle aches, and a general sense of being unwell.
Stay Well Hydrated
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea are common symptoms of Hepatitis A, and they can easily lead to dehydration.
Eat Small, Nutritious Meals
Loss of appetite is very common, especially in the early stages. But your body still needs nutrients to heal.
Avoid Alcohol and Fatty Foods
Your liver is already inflamed and working overtime to recover, so you don’t want to burden it further.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most people begin to feel better within a few weeks, but full recovery can take a few months, especially for adults, who tend to have more severe symptoms than children.
What are the Side Effects of Hepatitis A?
While Hepatitis A is usually a short-term (acute) illness that most people recover from completely, it can still cause a range of uncomfortable and sometimes serious side effects while your body fights the infection. Here’s what to expect and what to watch out for:
Prolonged Fatigue
Extreme tiredness is one of the most common symptoms and side effects of Hepatitis A, and it can linger long after the infection clears. The liver plays a major role in metabolism and energy production. When it’s inflamed (as it is during Hepatitis A), your whole body can feel run down.
Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)
Jaundice is a hallmark symptom and side effect of Hepatitis A. It’s caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that the liver normally processes and removes from the body.
Other signs of jaundice may include:
Nausea, Vomiting, and Digestive Upset
Hepatitis A often affects your appetite and digestion. Some people continue to experience:
Acute Liver Failure: Rare but Serious
Though uncommon, severe liver failure can occur, particularly in:
Older adults
People with pre-existing liver disease (like hepatitis B or C, or liver cirrhosis)
Individuals with weakened immune systems
Signs of serious liver issues include:
Mental confusion or drowsiness (a sign the liver is not clearing toxins)
Severe jaundice
Swelling in the abdomen or legs
Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Other Possible (but Uncommon) Side Effects
In rare cases, Hepatitis A may cause:
Joint pain
Rashes
Relapse hepatitis (where symptoms briefly return weeks after seeming to go away)
Cholestatic hepatitis (a longer-lasting form with more intense jaundice and itching, but still usually resolves without long-term damage)
How Can Hepatitis A Be Prevented?
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus, but the good news is it’s also very preventable. Since it spreads through contaminated food, water, or hands, prevention is all about good hygiene, safe food and water practices, and vaccination. Let’s break down the most effective ways to protect yourself:
Get the Hepatitis A Vaccine
The Hepatitis A vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection. It’s safe, well-tolerated, and gives long-term protection.
Usually given in two doses, six months apart.
Provides over 95% protection after the first dose, and near-complete immunity after the second.
Suitable for children over 1 year, unvaccinated adults, travellers, people with chronic liver disease, and others at higher risk.
Wash Your Hands Often and Properly
Good hand hygiene is crucial, especially because Hepatitis A spreads through the faecal-oral route (i.e., ingesting trace amounts of infected faeces, often through unwashed hands or contaminated food/water). Always wash your hands:
Drink Safe, Clean Water
Contaminated water is a major source of Hepatitis A, especially in areas with poor sanitation.To stay safe:
Drink bottled, boiled, or properly filtered water when you're unsure about the water source.
Avoid ice cubes in drinks unless you're sure they were made from safe water.
Use clean water for brushing your teeth, too.
Eat Well-Cooked Food
HAV can survive in food that hasn’t been cooked properly.To reduce risk:
Make sure meats, seafood, and shellfish (like oysters and clams) are thoroughly cooked.
Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish, which can carry the virus from contaminated waters.
Reheat leftovers until they’re steaming hot.
Avoid Street Food in High-Risk Areas
Street food can be tempting (and delicious), but it often involves unknown hygiene practices, especially in places with poor sanitation. If you’re traveling in a high-risk region:
Stick to food prepared in reputable restaurants or hotels.
Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you peel them yourself.
Don’t eat food that’s been sitting out for a long time or prepared with unclean water.
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Hepatitis A Treatment in Delhi, NCR?
At Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, we provide expert, comprehensive care for Hepatitis A with a focus on early diagnosis, supportive treatment, and long-term liver health. Here’s why patients trust us:
Experienced Gastroenterologists and Liver Specialists. Our team has extensive experience in managing all forms of hepatitis, including Hepatitis A. State-of-the-Art Diagnostic FacilitiesOn-site lab testing and liver function tests for accurate and timely diagnosis. Vaccination and Preventive Care. We offer Hepatitis A vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis for high-risk individuals. 24/7 Inpatient and Critical Care Support, Round-the-clock monitoring and support for severe cases of vulnerable patients. Personalized Nutrition and Recovery Plans: Dietitians and care teams guide you through liver-friendly nutrition and safe recovery. Infection Control and Hygiene Standards. Rigorous hygiene protocols ensure patient safety and prevent the spread of infection.
To book an appointment with some of the best General Physicians in Gurgaon at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 959-928-5476. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or by downloading the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Hepatitis A be cured?
Yes, it usually clears on its own without specific treatment. The body fights off the virus naturally.
Is Hepatitis A jaundice?
Hepatitis A causes jaundice in some people, but jaundice is just one symptom, not the disease itself.
How contagious is Hepatitis A?
Very contagious; it spreads easily through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person.
Is Hepatitis A lifelong?
No, it's an acute (short-term) infection. Once recovered, you’re immune for life.
Can I live a normal life with hepatitis?
Yes, especially with Hepatitis A, since it doesn’t become chronic or cause long-term liver damage.
Is Hepatitis A a big problem?
It can be serious, but is usually mild and preventable with a vaccine and good hygiene.
Is Hepatitis A cancerous?
No, Hepatitis A does not lead to liver cancer or become a chronic condition.
What is the recovery time for Hepatitis A?
Most people recover in 2–6 weeks, though fatigue may last a few months in some cases.
How do doctors treat Hepatitis A?
There's no specific medicine; treatment focuses on rest, fluids, and supporting the liver.
What is the survival rate for Hepatitis A?
Extremely high—most people recover fully, with very few fatalities, especially in healthy individuals.
Can Hepatitis A be cleared?
Yes, the immune system usually clears the virus completely within a few weeks.
Which hepatitis is easily curable?
Hepatitis A and C are curable; Hepatitis A clears on its own, while C is cured with antivirals.
Can the liver repair itself after Hepatitis A?
Yes, the liver typically heals completely after the infection resolves.
Is Hepatitis A a permanent disease?
No, it’s temporary. It does not become chronic or cause lifelong infection.
Who is the Best Doctor Near Me for Hepatitis A Treatment?
Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, has some of the best hepatologists and gastroenterologists experienced in diagnosing and treating Hepatitis A with medical options personalised to your needs.
What factors affect the cost of Hepatitis A treatment in Gurgaon?
The cost of Hepatitis A treatment in Gurgaon depends on factors such as the type of treatment (antiviral medications, liver transplant), duration of care, and the expertise of the treating doctor.
Which is the best hospital for Hepatitis A treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals is one of the best hospitals in Gurgaon for hepatitis treatment, offering expert care through experienced hepatologists and gastroenterologists, advanced diagnostic tools, and personalized treatment plans for all types of hepatitis, including Hepatitis A, B, C, and more.
