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Hepatitis A
Join Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston as he guides you through understanding hepatitis A—its transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Learn risk factors for infection, preventive measures, and personalized care strategies to support swift recovery and long-term liver health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Eating food or drinking water in areas with poor sanitation
Living with or caring for someone who is infected
Traveling to regions where hepatitis A is endemic
Consuming raw or undercooked shellfish from contaminated waters
Poor hand hygiene after using the restroom or changing diapers
Signs and Symptoms
Fatigue or general weakness
Low-grade fever
Lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen
Dark urine and pale-colored stools
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Hepatitis A?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exposure Assessment
She reviews your symptoms—fatigue, low-grade fever, nausea or vomiting, dark urine, pale stools—and asks about recent travel, contaminated food or water exposure, shellfish consumption, and contact with infected individuals.
Physical Examination
She palpates your upper right abdomen to assess epigastric pain or liver tenderness, checks for liver enlargement, and inspects your skin and eyes for jaundice.
Blood Tests
Hepatitis A Antibody (Total) - a reactive result confirms current or past infection.
Liver Function Panel (ALT, AST, bilirubin) - measures the extent of liver inflammation and function.
Additional Testing (if needed)
In uncommon or severe cases, he may order abdominal ultrasound or elastography to rule out other liver conditions or assess for complications.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hepatitis A.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Rest as much as possible
Drink water, broth, and other fluids
Eat small, easy-to-digest meals
Avoid alcohol and any medications that stress the liver
2. Medications
Antiemetic (nausea) medications if you're vomiting
Vitamins or supplements if recommended
Pain relievers only when cleared by Dr. Nguyen
3. Advanced Treatment Options
Referral to Houston transplant teams for the rare case of liver failure
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hepatitis A last?
Most people feel better within 4-8 weeks, though some may experience fatigue for a few more weeks.
Can I get the vaccine after being exposed?
Yes. If given within two weeks of exposure, the hepatitis A vaccine can prevent or lessen the severity of infection.
Should I get the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine?
If you're at risk for both, the Twinrix (combined A/B) vaccine is a convenient way to protect against both viruses.
Is hepatitis A contagious?
Yes. You're most contagious 1-2 weeks before symptoms appear and up to one week after jaundice begins.
Will I always test positive?
Total hepatitis A antibody tests stay positive for life, indicating past infection or vaccination but not active disease.
When can I go back to work or school?
Dr. Nguyen will let you know when you're no longer contagious and it's safe to resume normal activities.
