Definition: Hepatitis A is a viral infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. Many people in India call this disease 'Jaundice'. Infections with Hepatitis A virus are mild in majority cases, with most people making a full recovery. In rare instances, a person with compromised immunity may develop severe and life-threatening complications.

Hepatitis A virus is transmitted through food or water contaminated with feces of infected persons. You have higher chances of getting infected with the disease if you are in close contact with a person who is carrying the virus, even if he has no signs or symptoms.

After being exposed to the virus, it takes around 2 to 7 weeks to develop signs and symptoms of Hepatitis A. Symptoms usually last for about 2 months but may last longer in some cases.

After some days, you may develop certain symptoms that indicate the liver is affected, such as:

Depending on the presenting symptoms, severity, and origin of symptoms you should go and visit a physician.

If needed and if the presenting symptoms match the symptoms manifested by the virus, the doctor can suggest you for a blood test.