Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver — an organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, digestion, and nutrient storage. When the liver becomes inflamed, its normal function is disturbed, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
Many people do not realize they have hepatitis because symptoms may be mild or appear slowly. In some cases, the disease stays silent for years before complications develop.
What Is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by:
- Viral infections (most common)
- Alcohol use
- Certain medications
- Autoimmune diseases
- Toxins
Main Types of Viral Hepatitis
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Hepatitis D
- Hepatitis E
Each type affects the liver differently, but many symptoms are similar.
Early Symptoms (Often Mistaken for Flu)
In the initial stage, hepatitis commonly presents with general illness symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Body aches
- Headache
- Mild abdominal discomfort
Because these resemble viral fever, many patients ignore them.
Digestive & Liver-Related Symptoms
As liver inflammation increases, digestive disturbances appear:
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Bloating
- Indigestion
- Nausea after meals
- Sensitivity to fatty foods
Classic Signs of Hepatitis
These are more specific indicators of liver involvement:
1. Jaundice
- Yellowing of skin
- Yellow eyes
This happens due to accumulation of bilirubin in the blood.
2. Dark Urine
Urine may become tea-colored or cola-colored.
3. Pale or Clay-Colored Stool
The liver cannot properly process bile pigments.
4. Severe Fatigue
One of the most common and persistent symptoms.
5. Itchy Skin (Pruritus)
Caused by bile salt deposition under the skin.
Symptoms in Acute Hepatitis
(Usually Hepatitis A or E)
- Sudden fever
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Recovery within weeks in many cases
Symptoms in Chronic Hepatitis
(Common in Hepatitis B & C)
Often silent for years, but gradually causes:
- Long-term tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Mild liver pain
- Joint pain
- Recurrent nausea
Later complications:
- Liver fibrosis
- Cirrhosis
- Liver failure
- Liver cancer
Symptoms of Severe Hepatitis (Emergency Signs)
Seek urgent medical care if:
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Swelling of abdomen (ascites)
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe jaundice
- Black stools
These may indicate acute liver failure.
Why Symptoms Occur
The liver performs over 500 functions. When inflamed:
- Toxins accumulate → fatigue & confusion
- Bile flow obstructed → jaundice & itching
- Digestion impaired → nausea & appetite loss
- Protein production reduced → swelling & bleeding
How Hepatitis Is Diagnosed
Doctors may use:
- Liver function tests (LFT)
- Viral markers (HBsAg, Anti-HCV)
- Ultrasound abdomen
- Fibroscan
- Liver biopsy (sometimes)
When to See a Doctor
Consult a doctor if you notice:
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Dark urine
- Persistent fatigue
- Appetite loss > 1 week
- Contact with infected person
- Needle exposure or blood transfusion history
Prevention Tips
- Hepatitis A & B vaccination
- Safe drinking water
- Avoid sharing needles or razors
- Safe blood transfusions
- Proper food hygiene
- Protected sexual practices
Conclusion
Hepatitis infection can range from a mild illness to a serious liver disease. Early symptoms often resemble flu, which is why many people miss the diagnosis. Recognizing warning signs such as jaundice, dark urine, and persistent fatigue is crucial.
Early testing and treatment can prevent long-term complications like cirrhosis and liver failure. Awareness is the most powerful tool in protecting liver health.
