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Warning-sign checks

Hepatitis A: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if you become confused, unusually drowsy, difficult to wake, or develop unusual bleeding.

    Vomiting blood or passing black, tar-like stools also requires emergency care.

    These signs may indicate severe liver dysfunction or another serious problem.

    Routine tiredness during recovery does not usually require emergency care, but it should be discussed at follow-up if it is worsening or preventing normal eating, drinking, or daily activity.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange prompt medical assessment if you develop jaundice, dark urine with pale stools, persistent nausea, or upper abdominal discomfort.

    This is particularly important after travel, a known hepatitis A exposure, or contact with someone who has jaundice.

    Contact a healthcare or public health service urgently after a known exposure.

    Post-exposure vaccination or immune globulin works best when given promptly and is generally considered within two weeks.

    Seek urgent same-day care if you:

    • Cannot keep fluids down
    • Pass very little urine or have signs of dehydration
    • Have rapidly worsening jaundice or abdominal pain
    • Have an existing liver condition and develop possible hepatitis symptoms

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hepatitis A. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.