How common is jaundice in hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C can inflame the liver and alter bilirubin processing, leading to yellow eyes or skin and darker urine. Tiredness, nausea, reduced appetite, abdominal discomfort, itching, or pale stools may accompany the colour change. Hepatitis C may remain unnoticed for a long time, while jaundice can also be caused by other liver, blood, or bile-duct conditions. A symptom alone cannot establish the diagnosis.

Arrange medical assessment if you develop jaundice, dark urine, or other signs of liver illness. Testing commonly starts with a blood test for exposure and may include a follow-up test to check whether the virus is currently present. Avoid alcohol and check medicines, pain relievers, and supplements with a clinician. Do not donate blood, and avoid sharing items that may carry blood until you have received advice.

Go to urgent care if jaundice appears with confusion, severe drowsiness, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, fainting, unusual bleeding, or inability to keep fluids down. Rapidly deepening yellowing also warrants same-day advice. People with known liver disease should seek help early when new jaundice develops.

Ask which Hepatitis C tests you need, whether your liver function needs checking, how to protect others from blood exposure, and whether referral for treatment is appropriate. Ask which symptoms mean you should go to an emergency department.