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Hepatitis C is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to severe liver damage if left untreated. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, hepatitis C is curable.
In this blog, we’ll explore the symptoms of hepatitis C, available treatments, and why it’s essential to seek medical help if you suspect you have this condition.
Understanding Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that spreads through contaminated blood. It primarily affects the liver, causing inflammation and, in some cases, long-term complications such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, or even liver cancer.
Unlike hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, making prevention and early detection even more crucial.
How Does Hepatitis C Spread?
Hepatitis C spreads through contact with infected blood. The most common ways people get infected include:
Sharing Needles or Syringes – This is one of the leading causes of hepatitis C transmission, particularly among individuals who inject drugs.
Unsterilized Medical Equipment – In some cases, unsafe medical procedures using unsterilized instruments can spread the virus.
Blood Transfusions (Before 1992) – Before widespread screening, hepatitis C was commonly spread through blood transfusions. Today, blood donations are carefully screened, reducing this risk significantly.
Tattooing or Piercing with Contaminated Equipment – If non-sterile needles or equipment are used, there is a risk of transmission.
From Mother to Baby During Birth – While rare, an infected mother can pass the virus to her child during childbirth.
Sexual Contact – Although less common, hepatitis C can spread through unprotected sex, particularly if blood is present.
Understanding these risk factors can help prevent infection and encourage early testing.
Symptoms of Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is often called a "silent disease" because many people don’t experience symptoms until the infection has already caused liver damage. There are two main stages of the disease:
Acute Hepatitis C
This is the early stage of infection, occurring within the first six months after exposure. Some people may clear the virus naturally without treatment, but others develop chronic hepatitis C. Symptoms of acute hepatitis C include:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Dark urine
- Abdominal pain
Chronic Hepatitis C
If the infection persists beyond six months, it becomes chronic. Most people with chronic hepatitis C don’t experience symptoms for years or even decades, but when symptoms appear, they may include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Joint pain
- Skin problems (itching, rashes)
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Swelling in the legs
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Confusion or memory problems (due to liver dysfunction)
Chronic hepatitis C can lead to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Diagnosis of Hepatitis C
Since hepatitis C often has no symptoms in its early stages, testing is the only way to confirm an infection. If you are at risk, your doctor may recommend the following tests:
- HCV Antibody Test – A blood test that detects antibodies indicating past or current infection.
- HCV RNA Test – If antibodies are found, this test confirms if the virus is still present in the bloodstream.
- Liver Function Tests – These tests measure liver enzymes to check for liver damage.
- Liver Biopsy or FibroScan – In some cases, doctors may perform imaging tests or a biopsy to assess liver damage.
Treatment Options for Hepatitis C
The good news is that hepatitis C is now highly treatable. Modern antiviral medications can cure over 95% of cases with minimal side effects.
Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs)
DAAs are the standard treatment for hepatitis C. These oral medications target the virus directly and stop it from multiplying. The treatment duration is usually 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of hepatitis C and liver condition. Some commonly used DAAs include:
- Sofosbuvir
- Ledipasvir
- Glecaprevir
- Pibrentasvir
- Daclatasvir
These drugs have revolutionised hepatitis C treatment, offering high cure rates with fewer side effects compared to older treatments.
Liver Transplant (For Severe Cases)
If hepatitis C has caused severe liver damage or liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary. However, even after a transplant, antiviral treatment is required to prevent reinfection.
Preventing Hepatitis C
Since there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, prevention is key. Here are some important steps to reduce your risk:
- Avoid sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-related equipment.
- Ensure medical and tattooing procedures use sterile instruments.
- Practice safe sex, especially if you have multiple partners.
- Get tested if you have risk factors, as early detection can prevent complications.
Continental Hospitals: Expert Care for Hepatitis C
At Continental Hospitals, we provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for hepatitis C with a team of experienced hepatologists and state-of-the-art medical facilities. If you or a loved one is at risk, schedule a consultation today to take control of your liver health.
Conclusion
Hepatitis C is a serious but curable disease. Most people can fully recover and lead a healthy life with modern treatments. However, early detection is key. If you are at risk or experience symptoms, don’t delay seeking medical help.
If you suspect you have been exposed to hepatitis C or experience symptoms, Consult our best gastroenterologist at Continental Hospitals.
