Hepatitis A is a mild viral infection, especially in children, who often go unnoticed or recover without major complications.
However, doctors warn that the impact of Hepatitis A can be very different in adults, particularly those with underlying liver conditions such as fatty liver or cirrhosis. In such individuals, the infection can trigger severe complications, including acute liver failure, making early awareness, vaccination, and preventive care essential.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection spread through contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene, causing symptoms like fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Complications can include acute liver failure, prolonged jaundice, and in severe cases, life-threatening liver damage requiring hospitalisation or transplant.
“Hepatitis A is less common in adults compared to children, but its severity depends largely on the existing health of the liver. Individuals with a healthy, non-fatty liver may experience only mild symptoms, similar to a routine viral illness, and recover without even realising they were infected. However, in patients with compromised liver health, the same infection can lead to serious outcomes. The condition can trigger acute liver failure or what doctors call acute-on-chronic liver failure in patients who already have liver damage. While younger patients with otherwise healthy livers may recover with proper medical management, those with early cirrhosis or advanced liver disease may not be able to regain normal liver function once it deteriorates. The ability of the liver to recover depends largely on its baseline health,” says Dr Anurag Shrimal, director – Liver Transplant at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel.
Dr Shrimal further adds, “In many cases, younger patients without cirrhosis may recover well with timely treatment, even if complications arise. However, patients who already have early cirrhosis or significant liver damage may not be able to recover once their liver function declines. In such situations, liver transplantation becomes a critical, life-saving option. This highlights the importance of early diagnosis, timely medical intervention, and seeking care at specialised centres equipped to manage serious liver conditions. Prevention plays a key role in reducing the burden of Hepatitis A. Since it is a fecal-oral transmitted infection, maintaining good hygiene and sanitation can significantly reduce the risk. Vaccination is now available and is highly effective. Adults who are not already immune should consider taking the Hepatitis A vaccine, especially those with existing liver conditions. Protecting liver health through preventive measures can help avoid severe complications and improve overall outcomes.”
Dr Rohan Chaudhary, associate director, HPB Surgery and Liver Transplant, at the hospital, explains, “Hepatitis A is often underestimated in adults, especially those who already have liver-related issues. What may appear like a simple infection can quickly worsen if the liver is not healthy. People need to understand the status of their liver health and report symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, or loss of appetite to the expert for prompt intervention. Early medical care, along with preventive steps like vaccination and good hygiene, can go a long way in protecting the liver.”
“We regularly see patients with advanced liver conditions, and our skilled team is well-equipped to manage complex cases, including liver transplants when required. We remain committed to strengthening liver care services and improving overall liver health through timely intervention and specialised treatment,” adds Dr Chaudhary.
Dr Chetan Kalal, consultant Hepatologist and Transplant Physician at NewEra Hospital, Vashi, Navi Mumbai explains it more, saying, “Hepatitis A is usually considered a mild, self-limiting infection, and in most healthy individuals, recovery is complete. However, in clinical practice, we do see a different picture in patients who already have underlying liver disease.”
In individuals with fatty liver, Dr Kalal adds, advanced fibrosis, or cirrhosis, the liver’s reserve is reduced. When such a liver is exposed to an acute infection like hepatitis A, it may not be able to handle the additional stress. In some cases, this can lead to significant worsening of liver function and, rarely, acute liver failure or acute-on-chronic liver decompensation.
“The concern today is that fatty liver is increasingly common and often undiagnosed, especially in younger individuals and those without obvious symptoms. This means a person may appear otherwise healthy but still be at risk if they acquire hepatitis A,” Dr Kalal adds.
At the same time, the city expert says it is important to clarify that hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease. The risk lies in how it interacts with a liver that is already compromised.
From a preventive standpoint, safe food and water practices, good hygiene, and vaccination in at-risk individuals play an important role. “Early medical attention in patients with known liver disease who develop symptoms such as jaundice or vomiting is equally important,” he concludes.
