What does jaundice feel like with hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A can inflame the liver and interfere with normal bile handling. The whites of the eyes may turn yellow before the skin, or the colour may be subtle. Urine can look darker than usual, while stools may become pale. Itching can affect several areas, and some people feel generally unwell, lose appetite, feel sick, or have a low fever. Aching under the right ribs can occur as the liver becomes irritated.

Symptoms may develop after a period of feeling tired or having flu-like discomfort. The appearance of jaundice alone cannot identify its cause, because several liver and bile conditions can look similar.

Contact a clinician promptly if you notice yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, or pale stools. Assessment may include an examination and blood tests to check liver inflammation and confirm the cause. Rest, drink fluids, and choose small meals if nausea reduces your appetite. Avoid alcohol and check with a clinician before taking medicines or supplements, because an inflamed liver may change what is safe. Wash hands carefully and follow local medical advice about reducing spread to others.

Get urgent help for confusion, marked drowsiness, fainting, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, unusual bleeding, or rapidly worsening yellowing. These signs can indicate serious liver trouble or dehydration. Seek advice promptly as well if you are pregnant, have known liver disease, or have been exposed to someone with hepatitis.

Ask which tests will confirm the cause, how to protect people at home, and which medicines or foods to avoid. Ask how to manage nausea and itching, how long recovery may take, and which changes mean you should return urgently.