Hepatitis A is a liver disorder obtained via infection with the hepatitis A virus. It is diagnosed via a blood test. About 30 percent of Americans have been infected with hepatitis A, notes the "Journal of the American Medical Association." The hepatitis A virus is contracted via unprotected oral or anal sex. It is also obtained via consuming infected food or water. Changing the diaper of a child with a hepatitis A infection can also transmit the virus.
Liver Failure & Death
Liver failure that can cause death is a serious side effect of infection with hepatitis A. This is a rare side effect of this infection, notes Sarah Ringold, Cassio Lynm and colleagues in the "Journal of the Americna Medical Association."
Swelling of Liver
The liver may swell due to Hepatitis A, notes MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, but this symptom only rarely causes significant, permanent damage to the organ.
Flu-like Symptoms
Flu like symptoms are an effect of infection with the hepatitis A virus. Fatigue and nausea and vomiting can all occur due to a hepatitis A infection, notes FamilyDoctor.org.
Dark Urine
The urine can also develop a darker color, like the color of a dark soft drink, when a hepatitis A infection occurs, notes Family Doctor. This symptom can be quite obvious and should be discussed with a doctor.
Muscle Pain
The hepatitis A infection will also often cause overall muscle pain. Pain on the right side of the abdomen is also a sign of hepatitis A infection, notes Family Doctor. With this infection, the pain can cause a limitation on activities.
Fever
A low grade fever is a common effect of a hepatitis A infection. The fever can range up to about 102 F with this infection, notes Family Doctor. The fever will either come and go or be constant.
Jaundice
A hepatitis A infection often causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow, notes the Journal of the American Medical Association. This problem may develop gradually or appear quickly. This serious symptom requires immediate medical care.
A lack of energy often develops during an infection with hepatitis A. The lethargy will either be constant or come and go. It can cause a decrease in productivity at work and lack of enthusiasm for personal activities.
