Customer question:
What are the first symptoms of hepatitis? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, and there are different types of hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E) that different viruses can cause.
The symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the type of virus and the stage of the disease, but some common symptoms may include:
- Jaundice (icterus): this is one of the characteristics of hepatitis where the skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow. Jaundice results from the accumulation of bilirubin in the body, formed during the breakdown of red blood cells.
- Fatigue: the person may feel exhausted.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can be common symptoms of hepatitis.
- Abdominal pain: a person may experience pain in the abdomen, especially in the upper part where the liver is located.
- Lack of appetite: the person often loses interest in food and experiences a lack of appetite.
- Joint and muscle pain: joint and muscle pain may be present.
- Weakness: the person may feel weak and helpless.
- Dark-colored urine: urine may become darker than usual.
- Pale color of stools: stools can become light, a sign of bile secretion disorders.
Symptoms can develop gradually, and some people with hepatitis may not show obvious symptoms. In chronic forms of hepatitis, the disease can progress without characteristic symptoms, which emphasizes the importance of regular medical examinations and testing for hepatitis, especially if there is a risk of infection. In case of suspicious symptoms or risk of hepatitis, it is essential to seek medical help.
Interesting reading: Hepatitis A