Hepatitis C (HCV) is often referred to as a “silent” infection because many people don’t experience symptoms until the virus has caused significant liver damage. However, some early signs and symptoms might appear in the initial stages or in the early chronic phase. Here are some of the first warning signs of hepatitis C to watch for:

1. Fatigue and Weakness

• Fatigueis one of the most common early symptoms of hepatitis C, often described as feeling tired without a clear reason. This fatigue can be mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities, even before other symptoms appear.

2. Fever

• A low-grade fevercan occur, especially in the acute phase (within the first six months after exposure). It’s often mild and can be mistaken for a flu symptom.

3. Loss of Appetite and Nausea

• Hepatitis C can lead to digestive issuesearly on. This might include a loss of appetite, nausea, or feeling queasy. Some people may also experience weight loss as a result.

4. Muscle and Joint Pain

• Many people with early hepatitis C experience aches in the muscles and joints. This symptom can resemble general body aches from the flu and might lead to stiffness or discomfort.

5. Abdominal Pain

• Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen(where the liver is located) can sometimes be an early sign of liver inflammation due to HCV infection.

6. Dark Urine and Pale Stools

• Darkening of urine and paler stools can sometimes be a sign of liver issues, including hepatitis C. This happens due to the liver’s impaired ability to process waste products effectively.

7. Jaundice

• Although rare in early stages, some people may develop jaundice(a yellowing of the skin and eyes) during the acute phase. Jaundice indicates higher levels of bilirubin in the blood due to liver inflammation.

8. Brain Fog or Difficulty Concentrating

• Known as “hepatic encephalopathy”in more advanced liver disease, even mild liver dysfunction can sometimes lead to mental symptoms like trouble concentrating or mild confusion in the early stages of HCV.

9. Itchy Skin

• Itching is sometimes an early sign of liver disease and can occur due to the accumulation of bile acids in the bloodstream. For some, this might be one of the subtle initial symptoms of hepatitis C.

Importance of Early Detection and Testing

Since these symptoms are often mild and nonspecific, many people with hepatitis C may not recognize them as signs of a liver issue. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to HCV or experience these early symptoms, getting a blood test is the most reliable way to confirm the infection. Early detection can help prevent the disease from progressing, and effective antiviral treatments are available to clear the virus from the body.