Does hepatitis A cause dark urine?

Hepatitis A inflames the liver. When the liver is not processing bilirubin normally, more of this yellow pigment can pass into urine, making it look tea-coloured or brown. Dark urine may occur with tiredness, reduced appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, pale stools or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Dehydration, some medicines, foods and other liver or urinary conditions can also change urine colour, so appearance alone cannot diagnose Hepatitis A.

Contact a clinician promptly if dark urine is new and lasts, particularly after feeling unwell or having possible exposure to contaminated food or water. Note the colour, timing, bowel changes, pain, fever and medicines. Until assessed, avoid alcohol and do not share towels or food; wash hands carefully after using the toilet. A clinician may arrange blood tests and advise how to reduce spread at home.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for dark urine with yellow eyes or skin, pale stools, marked tiredness, nausea or upper-abdominal pain. Seek urgent help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, severe pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, bleeding, or inability to keep fluids down.

Could my urine colour reflect Hepatitis A or another liver problem? Which blood tests are needed? Should I avoid particular medicines, alcohol or close contact while this is being assessed?