Symptoms

The symptoms of hepatitis D depend on the form of the infection and whether it is combined with hepatitis B.

Acute hepatitis D

In cases of simultaneous infection with hepatitis B and D viruses, acute hepatitis may develop—ranging from mild to severe. Its manifestations do not differ from the symptoms of other acute viral hepatitis.

The most common symptoms:

• fever;
• severe fatigue, weakness;
• loss of appetite;
• nausea and vomiting;
• decreased concentration;
• dark urine and pale stools;
• yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice);
• severe itching of the skin.
  

The severity of symptoms can vary significantly—from mild to very severe.

Chronic hepatitis D

Chronic hepatitis D often progresses asymptomatically or is accompanied by nonspecific, mild symptoms that a person may not associate with liver disease.

As a result, the disease can progress silently for a long time, gradually causing serious damage to the liver.

In the later stages, signs of severe liver damage appear, including:

• fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity (ascites);
• impaired brain function (hepatic encephalopathy);
• other symptoms indicative of decompensated liver disease.
  

It is important to know that the absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of disease. That is why people with hepatitis B are advised to get tested for hepatitis D, even if they feel well.

We’re here to help you navigate these steps with ease and clarity—from testing to the next steps.