What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?
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Symptoms of Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The symptoms of hepatitis A can vary in severity and are often age-dependent. Below is a detailed overview of the common and atypical symptoms associated with hepatitis A.
Common Symptoms of Hepatitis A
Dark Urine and Jaundice
One of the hallmark symptoms of hepatitis A is dark urine, which often precedes the appearance of jaundice. Jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a common symptom in adults and older children but is less frequently observed in younger children .
Fatigue and Malaise
Fatigue and a general feeling of malaise are frequently reported by individuals infected with hepatitis A. These symptoms can be debilitating and often persist throughout the course of the illness .
Gastrointestinal Complaints
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite are common in hepatitis A patients. These symptoms typically appear early in the infection and can be quite severe .
Fever
Fever is another common symptom, often occurring in the early stages of the infection. It is usually accompanied by other systemic symptoms like fatigue and malaise .
Physical Findings
Hepatomegaly
Hepatomegaly, or an enlarged liver, is a frequent physical finding in hepatitis A patients. This can be detected through physical examination and is often associated with mild to moderate tenderness over the liver area .
Elevated Liver Enzymes
Laboratory tests typically show elevated levels of liver enzymes such as serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). These levels rise rapidly during the prodromal period, peak, and then gradually decrease .
Atypical and Rare Symptoms
Relapsing Hepatitis and Prolonged Cholestasis
Although rare, some patients may experience relapsing hepatitis or prolonged cholestasis. These conditions can extend the duration of the illness and complicate recovery .
Extrahepatic Manifestations
In rare cases, hepatitis A can present with extrahepatic symptoms such as skin rashes, arthralgia (joint pain), and even more severe conditions like autoimmune hemolytic anemia, acute pancreatitis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome .
Asymptomatic Cases
It is important to note that many younger children infected with hepatitis A may remain asymptomatic or exhibit only mild symptoms. This can lead to underreporting and underdiagnosis of the disease in this age group .
Conclusion
Hepatitis A presents with a range of symptoms, from common manifestations like dark urine, jaundice, fatigue, and gastrointestinal complaints to rarer, more severe conditions. Understanding these symptoms can aid in timely diagnosis and management, ensuring better outcomes for those affected by this viral infection.
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