What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammation that normally occurs due to an infection of the liver. There are several different types or strains of the disease, with each manifesting a particular set of symptoms. Fortunately, the signs and symptoms of hepatitis can usually be identified with proper testing by a qualified physician, making it possible to administer the proper treatment quickly and effectively.

With hepatitis A, it is not unusual for the symptoms to be somewhat mild. In fact, some people will experience no symptoms at all. Sufferers may find that their energy level is low, even after a good night’s rest. A low-grade fever is one of the more common symptoms of hepatitis A, and may be accompanied by a general loss of interest in eating and some minor pain in the muscles. There may also be a recurring sense of itchiness for no apparent reason. In some cases, the signs of hepatitis A will clear up after a couple of months, although the virus is likely to recur from time to time.

The symptoms of hepatitis B include the same general sense of fatigue, lack of an appetite, and general pain in the joints. There is also the chance of experiencing some pain in the abdomen, in the general area of the liver. People suffering with this form of hepatitis are also likely to notice the development of jaundice as well as a darkening of the urine. Unlike hepatitis A, hepatitis B can cause permanent damage to the liver, if not treated in a timely manner.

With symptoms of hepatitis C, the same general signs related to the two other forms of the infection are present. In addition, hepatitis C will produce a sense of tenderness in the area around the liver, as well as some nausea and possibly vomiting. Both hepatitis B and C can be transmitted to others, even when there are no apparent signs.

It is important to note that the symptoms of hepatitis associated with each of the three basic types may be almost non-existent. This makes it relatively easy for someone infected with the disease to attribute mild symptoms to other situations, such as the onset or aftermath of a cold, stress, or a lack of sleep. Because hepatitis has the potential to cause permanent liver damage, it is important to be checked for signs of the condition, especially if the individual engages in any type of activity where there is a chance of contracting the disease.