5 Ways to Treat Hepatitis A

1. Avoid Further Liver Inflammation

Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a highly contagious illness that causes liver inflammation and infection. There is no specific hepatitis A treatment, and most patients recover within 1 to 2 months. However, those inflicted with the hepatitis A virus can manage and ease their symptoms with various methods. One of the most important aspects of treatment is to avoid any further inflammation of the liver. To do this, those with hepatitis A should not consume alcohol or take any drugs containing acetaminophen, since these can cause liver inflammation. Eating a healthy diet low in fatty foods can also help, because fatty foods can further irritate and inflame the liver.

2. Treat Nausea

People infected with hepatitis A typically experience mild to severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. To treat these symptoms, patients should eat small meals and choose soft, bland and easy-to-digest foods. Toast, applesauce, soup and broth make good choices. Anti-nausea drugs can also help patients who have severe nausea and vomiting.

3. Stay Hydrated

The nausea, vomiting and diarrhea associated with the hepatitis A virus causes the loss of body fluids, which can lead to dehydration. People with hepatitis A should make sure that they drink plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration. Both water and clear juices make good beverage choices. In some cases--as in the case of severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea--a patient with hepatitis A may need to receive intravenous (IV) fluids in a hospital to combat dehydration.

4. Rest Up

Hepatitis A causes fatigue that can last up to 2 months. During this time, it is imperative for those infected to rest as much as possible. Patients should avoid heavy exercising and other strenuous activities during this time. People with hepatitis A should also nap as much as possible, and they should get plenty of sleep every night.

5. Consider Milk Thistle as an Alternative Treatment

While there is no specific drug that can treat hepatitis A, some people recommend the use of milk thistle as an alternative therapy. The major component of milk thistle, silymarin, can help reduce liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus. Milk thistle can also help the liver create enzymes that lead to faster healing of the liver. People with hepatitis A should, however, check with their own personal doctor before taking milk thistle.