What is a common initial symptom of hepatitis C infection during the pre-icteric phase?

During the pre-icteric phase of hepatitis C infection, the initial symptoms often resemble those of a mild viral illness. Headache is a common early symptom that can manifest along with other general symptoms such as fatigue, malaise, and mild fever. This phase occurs before the onset of jaundice and more specific liver-related symptoms.

Recognizing headache as a symptom is significant because it underscores the nonspecific nature of initial hepatitis C symptoms; they can easily be attributed to other viral infections or fatigue. Therefore, while jaundice, dark urine, and fever can eventually occur, they are not typically seen in the very early stages. Identifying headache can prompt further investigation, especially in patients with risk factors for hepatitis C.