Symptoms of chronic hepatitis: Watch out for jaundice, fatigue, nausea and more

Hepatitis is when the liver gets swollen or sick. It can happen because of alcohol or other causes.(Image: canva)

Liver inflammation that lasts over six months, usually caused by viral infections, toxins or autoimmune disorders is called chronic hepatitis. The early symptoms of this disease are subtle and often ignored.

Every year, thousands of Indians suffer chronic hepatitis without being aware of it. Dr Sanjay Khanna, Co-Chairman, Manipal Institute of Gastroenterology, says, “The danger of hepatitis lies in its silent progression. Many only realise they’re infected when complications like liver failure, or cancer appear,”  Delayed diagnosis often reduces the effectiveness of treatment.

Also read: Explained: Types of viral hepatitis, causes, symptoms, expert tips to protect your liver

Viral hepatitis, including A, B, C, or E, is the most prevalent type. “Unlike acute hepatitis, which resolves within months, chronic hepatitis can damage the liver for years,” shares  Dr Khanna. If left untreated, it may lead to cirrhosis, hypo cellular carcinoma, or liver failure, sometimes negotiating transplantation. “Since the early symptoms like fatigue, mild abdominal discomfort, nausea, are often subtle, the disease may go unnoticed. Early testing is there for important to prevent reversible damage and improve treatment outcomes,”

Additionally, the advanced symptoms like jaundice, dark urine fails tools, abdominal swelling, or easy bruising may indicate liver damage. “Routine screening is the only reliable way to catch hepatitis before it becomes life, threatening,” informs Dr. Khanna and adds, “The advance symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal swelling, or easy bruising may indicate liver damage,” Routine screening is the only reliable way to catch hepatitis before it becomes life-threatening.

Dr Khanna shares reasons why early detection matters: 

Prevent liver damage before it begins

Early diagnosis allows treatment to halt the disease’s progression. Dr Khanna emphasises, “Stopping hepatitis in its tracks can prevent serious conditions like cirrhosis or liver failure.”

Reduce the risk of cancer 

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common consequence of chronic hepatitis. Detecting the virus early enables interventions that lower cancer risk, long before symptoms appear.

Also read: World Hepatitis Day 2025: History, significance, theme and tips to protect your liver

Protect others from infection

Hepatitis can spread via bodily fluids, close contact, or contaminated needles and razors. Early detection helps patients adopt safe practices, preventing further transmission.

Tests for early detection

Routine blood tests such as Liver Function Tests (LFTs) and viral markers identify infection. Ultrasound imaging shows structural changes, while Fibroscan measures liver stiffness, providing crucial insight into disease severity and progression.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis