Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It can cause both short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) liver issues. The virus is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, most commonly through sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment, and less commonly through unprotected intercourse or from mother to baby during childbirth.
Hepatitis C can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer if left untreated. However, recent advancements in treatment have made it possible to cure many cases of chronic hepatitis C.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C?
In the early stages, hepatitis C often has no symptoms, which is why many people don't realize they’re infected. If symptoms do appear, they may include:
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Fatigue (feeling tired all the time)
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Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
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Dark urine
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Pale stool
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Abdominal pain (especially on the right side, where the liver is located)
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Loss of appetite
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Nausea or vomiting
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Muscle or joint pain
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Itchy skin
Symptoms often don’t show up until the infection has caused significant liver damage, which is why hepatitis C is often called a "silent" infection.
How is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?
Hepatitis C is diagnosed with a blood test that checks for the presence of the hepatitis C virus. If the test is positive, further tests may be done to determine the extent of liver damage and whether the infection is acute or chronic.
How is Hepatitis C Spread?
Hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact. The most common ways it is transmitted include:
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Sharing needles or other equipment used for injecting drugs
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Receiving blood products or organ transplants before blood screening for hepatitis C became common
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Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with someone who is infected
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Unprotected intercourse , especially with someone who has a high viral load
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From an infected mother to her baby during childbirth (although this is rare)
Unlike hepatitis A or B, hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact like hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food or drinks.
Can Hepatitis C be Prevented?
Currently, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C. The best way to prevent it is to avoid sharing needles, razors, or any items that might be contaminated with blood. It's also important to practice safe intecourse by using condoms, especially if you are at risk of exposure.
If you are at high risk (for example, if you inject drugs or are a healthcare worker), you should talk to your doctor about the best ways to protect yourself from hepatitis C.
How is Hepatitis C Treated?
Hepatitis C treatment has advanced significantly in recent years. Modern antiviral medications can cure the infection in most people. Treatment usually involves oral medications that are taken for 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of hepatitis C and the degree of liver damage. These medications work by directly targeting the virus and preventing it from multiplying.
If you have chronic hepatitis C and have developed liver damage, your doctor may monitor your liver function and consider additional treatments. In some cases, a liver transplant may be needed if the liver becomes severely damaged.
FAQs
1. Can I get hepatitis C from casual contact, like shaking hands or hugging?
No, hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact such as shaking hands, hugging, or sharing food and drinks. It is spread through blood-to-blood contact, like sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment.
2. How long after exposure do symptoms appear?
For most people, hepatitis C does not cause symptoms for many years, and symptoms may not appear until liver damage has occurred. If symptoms do develop, they may show up anywhere from 2 weeks to several months after exposure.
3. Can hepatitis C be cured?
Yes, hepatitis C can be cured with modern antiviral medications. These medications can clear the virus from the body in most people, leading to the resolution of the infection and a lower risk of liver damage. Treatment usually lasts between 8 to 12 weeks.
4. How do I know if I have hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is usually diagnosed through a blood test. If you’re at higher risk for hepatitis C (for example, if you inject drugs or have received blood transfusions in the past), you should get tested. Many people with hepatitis C have no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know for sure.
5. Can I prevent hepatitis C?
There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but you can reduce your risk by avoiding sharing needles or any equipment that could be contaminated with blood. Practicing safe intercourse, using condoms, and being cautious with personal items like razors or toothbrushes can also help prevent the spread of the virus.
