Hepatitis E is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). It differs from other hepatitis types (A, B, C, D) and most healthy adults recover within a few weeks without lasting issues.
Symptoms often appear 2 to 8 weeks after exposure. Watch for:
The virus spreads when water or food is contaminated with stool. Common causes include:
At GastroDoxs in Katy, we combine expert liver care with personalized attention to help you overcome Hepatitis E quickly and safely. Our compassionate team offers fast appointments, advanced diagnostics, and tailored treatment plans-so you can focus on recovery and peace of mind. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier liver.
We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Hepatitis E is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). It typically resolves on its own in healthy adults within a few weeks but can be serious in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.
The virus is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, most often through drinking contaminated water or eating food tainted with sewage. It can also spread by handling contaminated surfaces or close personal contact.
Hepatitis A and E are transmitted through contaminated food or water (fecal-oral route). Hepatitis B, C, and D spread through blood and other bodily fluids, such as during unprotected sex, shared needles, or from mother to child at birth.
Both viruses are caused by ingesting fecal matter-contaminated food, water, or shellfish. Outbreaks often occur in areas with poor sanitation, insufficient handwashing, or inadequate water treatment.
Symptoms typically appear 2-8 weeks after exposure and last around 4-6 weeks. Recovery may take longer in those with weakened immune systems or preexisting liver disease.
While usually mild, Hepatitis E can lead to acute liver failure in high-risk groups, especially pregnant women in their third trimester and people with compromised immunity.
A vaccine has been developed and is licensed in some countries, but it is not widely available in the United States. Prevention relies on clean water, good hygiene, and safe food handling.
Preventive measures include drinking bottled or boiled water, washing hands thoroughly with soap, cooking meat and seafood thoroughly, and avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish.
Seek medical attention if you experience persistent fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain lasting more than a few days.
Local specialists at GastroDoxs offer rapid appointments, personalized liver-focused treatment plans, experienced gastroenterologists familiar with regional risks, and comprehensive support for full recovery.
