Severe Hepatitis Symptoms

Severe hepatitis can result from various types of liver inflammation, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, and drug-induced hepatitis. When the liver sustains significant damage, the condition is classified as severe hepatitis. Below are the most common symptoms associated with this serious health issue.

General Symptoms
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs is persistent fatigue and a general feeling of weakness. Patients often experience a significant decrease in energy levels, which can interfere with daily activities.

Digestive Disturbances
Individuals may lose their appetite and develop an aversion to fatty foods. For example, someone who previously enjoyed eating meat may suddenly find it unappealing. Nausea and vomiting are also common, further contributing to poor nutrition and weight loss.

Jaundice
A visible sign of liver dysfunction is jaundice, which causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow. The urine may also darken, sometimes appearing like strong tea, indicating a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Discomfort in the Liver Area
Some patients report a dull ache or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located. This symptom may vary in intensity and could signal inflammation or swelling of the liver.

Coagulation Problems
Since the liver produces most of the body's clotting factors, severe damage can lead to impaired blood coagulation. This may result in prolonged bleeding from minor injuries or even spontaneous bruising. Patients may notice that small cuts or injections lead to continuous bleeding.

To accurately diagnose severe hepatitis, doctors rely on liver function tests. These blood tests provide critical information about the liver's ability to produce proteins, process toxins, and maintain overall function. Liver function results are essential for confirming the severity of the condition and guiding treatment decisions.