Hepatitis A signs and symptoms

A person with hepatitis A can feel generally unwell before liver-related changes become noticeable. Nausea, reduced appetite, fever, and discomfort under the ribs may occur. Later, urine may look darker and stools may become lighter, while the whites of the eyes or skin can turn yellow. Some people, especially young children, have few or no obvious symptoms. Symptoms can overlap with other illnesses, so they do not confirm hepatitis A by themselves. A clinician may assess your history and arrange blood tests, including a liver function test.

Arrange medical advice if these symptoms are new, persistent, or occur after close contact with someone who has hepatitis A. Until you have advice, wash your hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, avoid preparing food for others, and drink fluids as tolerated. Do not start or stop medicines, supplements, or alcohol without discussing them with a clinician because the liver may be inflamed. Vaccination can help prevent hepatitis A in appropriate situations; ask whether it is suitable for you.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, bleeding, or rapidly increasing yellowing. Prompt assessment is also sensible during pregnancy, in a child, or if you already have liver disease. Dark urine together with yellow eyes or skin deserves medical review even when other symptoms are mild.

Ask which tests can distinguish hepatitis A from other causes of nausea or jaundice, whether a liver function test is needed, how to protect household contacts, and when normal activities and food preparation can resume.