What should you know about hepatitis A symptoms in adults?

Hepatitis A can begin with a general feeling of illness, reduced appetite, nausea, low energy or a mild fever. Later, some adults notice dark urine, pale stools or yellowing of the skin and eyes. A person can have hepatitis A without every symptom, and these symptoms can also occur with other illnesses. A symptom does not by itself establish the diagnosis.

A clinician may ask about recent travel, food or water exposure, close contact with someone who is infected and vaccination history. Blood tests, including specific hepatitis testing and a liver function test, help place the symptoms in context.

Contact a clinician if several of these symptoms appear together, particularly dark urine or yellowing. Until you have advice, rest, drink regularly and try small, simple meals. Avoid alcohol and check with a clinician before using new medicines or supplements, because the liver processes many substances.

Hepatitis A can spread through contaminated hands, food or water. Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food. If infection is suspected, ask how to reduce contact-related spread and whether people close to you need vaccination advice.

Seek urgent assessment for confusion, marked drowsiness, severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, inability to drink, fainting or rapidly worsening yellowing. These symptoms can signal a need for immediate support. Arrange prompt review for new yellow skin or eyes even if you otherwise feel stable.

Ask which symptoms fit hepatitis A, which blood tests are needed, how to protect people at home, what foods and medicines to avoid, and how you will know that your liver is recovering.