Chronic Hepatitis Symptoms and Their Impact on the Body

Chronic hepatitis can manifest through a variety of symptoms, which are generally categorized into systemic and localized signs. Recognizing these symptoms early can help in timely diagnosis and management of the condition.

Systemic Symptoms

One of the most common signs of chronic hepatitis is persistent fatigue and weakness, often accompanied by mild fever. Patients may also experience sleep disturbances such as insomnia or frequent dreams, which are believed to be linked to the body's immune response and overall stress caused by the disease.

Digestive System Symptoms

When the liver is inflamed, its ability to produce bile decreases, which can lead to a range of digestive issues. These include loss of appetite, nausea, aversion to fatty foods, upper abdominal discomfort, and bloating. These symptoms can significantly affect a person's quality of life and nutritional intake.

Jaundice and Related Complications

In more severe cases, impaired liver function can lead to jaundice — a yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by the buildup of bilirubin in the blood. The earliest sign is usually dark yellow urine. As bilirubin levels rise, the whites of the eyes and then the skin begin to turn yellow. Additionally, bile acid retention can cause skin itching due to its deposition and stimulation of nerve endings in the skin.

Abdominal Discomfort and Liver Pain

While chronic hepatitis B typically does not cause sharp pain, some individuals may feel discomfort, tenderness, or a dull ache in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located. This sensation can be intermittent and may be mistaken for other gastrointestinal issues.

Liver and Spleen Enlargement

Inflammation, congestion, and swelling can cause the liver and spleen to enlarge during the early stages of chronic hepatitis. However, in advanced stages where significant liver cell death occurs, the liver may actually shrink due to fibrosis and tissue contraction.

Extrahepatic Manifestations

Patients with chronic hepatitis, especially those with cirrhosis, may develop distinct physical signs. These include a dull, grayish complexion known as "liver face" and palmar erythema, or "liver palms," where the skin on the palms becomes reddish and warm to the touch. These changes are often associated with hormonal imbalances and altered blood flow caused by liver dysfunction.

Understanding the full spectrum of chronic hepatitis symptoms is essential for early detection and effective long-term management of the disease.