SymptomsHepatitis A
The symptoms of hepatitis A develop, on average, around 4 weeks after becoming infected. But not everyone with the infection has symptoms.
See your GP if you think you could have been infected with the virus.
A blood test will be needed to rule out more serious conditions that have similar symptoms.
Initial symptoms
The initial symptoms of hepatitis A can include:
- feeling tired and generally unwell
- joint and muscle pain
- a raised temperature
- loss of appetite
- feeling or being sick
- pain in the upper right part of your tummy
- a headache, sore throat and cough
- constipation or diarrhoea
- a raised, itchy rash (hives)
Later symptoms
After the initial symptoms, the following symptoms may develop:
- yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- dark pee
- pale poo
- itchy skin
- the upper right part of your tummy becoming swollen and tender
Most people make a full recovery within a couple of months, although the symptoms can come and go for up to 6 months.
Signs of a serious problem
Hepatitis A is not usually serious, but in rare cases it can cause the liver to stop working properly (liver failure).
As well as the symptoms mentioned, signs of liver failure can include:
- sudden, severe vomiting
- a tendency to bruise and bleed easily (for example, frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums)
- irritability
- problems with memory and concentration
- drowsiness and confusion
Get medical advice as soon as possible if you have these symptoms. Liver failure can be life threatening if not treated quickly.