Symptoms of Hepatitis A, B, C, D & E – Broken Down Simply

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most often caused by a viral infection. There are five main types of hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each type has its own mode of transmission, severity, and treatment, but understanding the hepatitis symptoms is key to early diagnosis and effective care.

Let’s simplify the hepatitis A B C D E symptoms to help you recognize them quickly and take the right steps.

Hepatitis A Symptoms

Transmission: Contaminated food or water.

Common Symptoms:

• Sudden fever

• Nausea and vomiting

• Fatigue and weakness

• Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)

• Dark-colored urine

• Pale stool

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
   

Note: Hepatitis A usually resolves on its own and doesn’t cause chronic liver damage.

Hepatitis B Symptoms

Transmission: Blood, unprotected sex, and from mother to baby during childbirth.

Common Symptoms:

• Joint pain and muscle aches

• Loss of appetite

• Fever and chills

• Abdominal discomfort

• Nausea

• Jaundice

• Dark urine and light-colored stool
   

Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated.

Hepatitis C Symptoms

Transmission: Blood-to-blood contact (through needles, transfusions, etc.)

Common Symptoms:

• Fatigue

• Poor appetite

• Muscle and joint pain

• Abdominal discomfort

• Mild jaundice (less common in early stages)

• Depression or cognitive issues

Often called the “silent” disease, hepatitis C may remain asymptomatic for years but can progress to chronic liver disease.

Hepatitis D Symptoms

Transmission: Requires existing hepatitis B infection; spreads through contact with infected blood.

Common Symptoms:

• Severe fatigue

• Intense abdominal pain

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes

• Nausea and vomiting

• Joint pain

• Loss of appetite

This type causes more severe illness and worsens outcomes in hepatitis B patients.

Hepatitis E Symptoms

Transmission: Contaminated water and poor sanitation.

Common Symptoms:

• Mild fever

• Fatigue

• Appetite loss

• Nausea

• Abdominal pain

• Jaundice
   

Though usually acute and self-limiting, hepatitis E can be life-threatening in pregnant women, especially in the third trimester.

Quick Comparison Table

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing any of the above hepatitis symptoms, especially fatigue, yellowing of the eyes, or persistent nausea, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Early detection can prevent liver damage and improve recovery outcomes.

Where to Get Expert Help?

At RG Hospitals, our team of liver and infectious disease specialists provides advanced diagnosis and treatment for all types of hepatitis. From vaccinations and testing to long-term liver care, we ensure our patients receive comprehensive support every step of the way.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen — take control of your liver health with RG Hospitals.