Why does hepatitis A cause jaundice?

Bilirubin is produced as old red blood cells are broken down. It normally passes through the liver and leaves the body in stool. When that pathway is disrupted, bilirubin can build up in the blood and make the whites of the eyes and skin look yellow.

Jaundice is a very common presentation of Hepatitis A. Dark urine, pale stools, itching, nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness or discomfort under the right ribs may occur at the same time. The shade of skin is not always the easiest place to spot yellowing, so checking the whites of the eyes can be helpful.

Jaundice has several possible causes, including other liver problems and blocked bile flow. A clinician can use your history, examination and blood tests to identify the cause.

Contact a clinician promptly if your eyes or skin become yellow. Until you are assessed, avoid alcohol and check before using any medicines, supplements or herbal remedies, since some can affect the liver. Rest, fluids and small meals may be easier if you feel nauseated.

Careful handwashing after using the toilet and before preparing food helps limit spread of hepatitis A to others. Follow any public-health or workplace advice you are given.

Get urgent medical help for confusion, marked sleepiness, fainting, severe or increasing tummy pain, repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, bleeding, or bruising without an obvious injury. These signs require urgent evaluation.

Seek same-day advice if yellowing is new or worsening, urine becomes very dark, stools become pale, or you have fever with worsening illness.

Ask what is causing the jaundice, whether liver blood tests need to be repeated, which medicines are suitable, how to prevent household spread, and when you can return to usual work or food preparation. Bring a list of medicines and supplements you have taken.