Hepatitis A symptoms

Jul 14, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

A friend of mine was diagnosed with hepatitis A at the hospital. Is this disease contagious? What are the symptoms?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Hepatitis A, commonly known as HAV, is an acute liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis A virus. Its initial symptoms may be mild and nonspecific. However, as the disease progresses, common symptoms include: 1. **Fatigue:** Persistent general weakness, which may be one of the earliest symptoms. 2. **Digestive problems:** Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, sometimes accompanied by abdominal discomfort, especially pain in the liver area (upper right quadrant of the abdomen). 3. **Jaundice:** A characteristic feature of hepatitis A,表现为 yellowing of the skin and eyes, caused by accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream. 4. **Dark urine:** Urine may darken in color, sometimes resembling strong tea. 5. **Pale stools:** Stools may become lighter than usual or appear clay-colored, indicating reduced bile flow. Hepatitis A generally does not lead to chronic liver disease. Most people recover naturally within a few weeks to months and develop lifelong immunity. If a person experiences these symptoms, prompt medical attention is recommended.