What is the first treatment for hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. There is usually no routine medicine that directly removes the virus, so care aims to support hydration, nutrition and comfort while the immune system clears the infection. A liver function test can help clinicians assess inflammation and follow recovery alongside symptoms and examination. Alcohol and medicines that can strain the liver should be discussed with a clinician.

Rest when fatigue is strong, drink regularly and choose small meals if nausea reduces your appetite. Use only medicines approved by your clinician, including products for pain or nausea. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, and follow local public-health advice about close contacts. A clinician can explain when work, school and food preparation are appropriate again.

Seek urgent care for confusion, unusual sleepiness, bleeding, severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, worsening abdominal swelling or inability to keep fluids down. Contact your clinician for worsening jaundice, very dark urine, pale stools or increasing right-sided abdominal pain. These changes need assessment rather than self-treatment.

Ask which medicines and foods to avoid, whether repeat liver function tests are needed, how to reduce spread at home, and whether household or close contacts need hepatitis A vaccination.