What are the first signs of hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver. Early symptoms can resemble a general illness: energy may fall, appetite may decrease, and nausea or a mild fever may develop. As the liver is affected, urine can become dark and the whites of the eyes or skin may turn yellow. Symptoms vary, and some people have few or no noticeable symptoms, particularly early on.

A clinician may assess your symptoms, exposure history, and liver function. Blood testing can help identify hepatitis A and show how the liver is working.

Contact a clinician if you develop a combination of feeling unwell, nausea, reduced appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Until assessed, avoid alcohol and check before taking medicines or supplements that may affect the liver. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, particularly if infection is suspected.

Seek urgent help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, inability to drink, or rapidly worsening jaundice. Prompt assessment is also sensible during pregnancy or when a young child, older adult, or person with liver disease is affected.

Ask whether you need a liver function test, which blood tests are appropriate, how to reduce spread at home, and whether hepatitis A vaccination is relevant for close contacts or future protection.