Hepatitis C skin symptoms: what to know

Skin findings are not enough to identify the cause, so a clinician may combine your history with blood tests and an examination.

A hepatitis C infection can affect the liver and, in some people, cause substances normally processed by the liver to build up. This may contribute to yellow skin or yellowing in the whites of the eyes. Itching can occur with liver or bile-flow problems, while bruising may reflect changes in clotting or low blood-cell levels. These symptoms also have many other possible causes, including medicines, allergies and common skin conditions.

Fatigue can accompany hepatitis C, even when skin changes are absent. Read more about [Hepatitis C](/conditions/hepatitis-c/) and [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/).

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if itching, a new rash, unexplained bruising or yellowing persists, particularly if you have had a possible blood exposure. Do not share razors, toothbrushes or needles, and cover bleeding skin. A clinician may recommend hepatitis C testing and a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/); these tests answer different questions and one cannot replace the other. Avoid starting supplements for liver health without checking first.

Seek urgent medical help for yellowing with confusion, marked drowsiness, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal swelling, or bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure. Get prompt advice for rapidly spreading bruising, facial swelling with breathing difficulty, or a widespread rash with fever. These warning signs need assessment regardless of whether hepatitis C has been diagnosed.

Ask: Could my skin symptom have a cause other than hepatitis C? Which blood tests do I need? Should I review any medicines or supplements? How should I protect broken skin while it heals?