Clinical features of hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver. Early symptoms may resemble a general viral illness: [Feeling Generally Unwell](/symptoms/feeling-generally-unwell/), tiredness, mild fever, [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/), and [Loss of Appetite](/symptoms/loss-of-appetite/). Some people later notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, pale stools, itching, or [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/). Symptoms vary, and some people have few obvious signs, so a clinical assessment may be useful after a relevant exposure.

Arrange medical advice if you develop these symptoms or have been exposed to someone with hepatitis A. Tell the clinician about travel, food or water exposure, household contact, and when symptoms began. A [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) may be part of the assessment. Rest, drink enough to avoid dehydration, avoid alcohol, and check before taking medicines or supplements because the liver processes many of them. Ask whether [Hepatitis A Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-a-vaccination/) is appropriate for you or close contacts.

Seek prompt care for worsening yellowing, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, confusion, unusual sleepiness, bleeding, or inability to drink. Urgent advice is also needed if you are pregnant, have known liver disease, or become rapidly more unwell. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and avoid preparing food for others until a clinician gives you specific advice.

Ask whether your symptoms need liver tests, how to protect household contacts, which medicines and foods to avoid, and when you can safely return to work, school, or food handling.