Understanding Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious liver damage. The virus is spread through contaminated blood.
Key Fact: Today, chronic Hepatitis C is usually curable with oral medications taken every day for two to six months.
Common Symptoms
Jaundice
Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
Fatigue
Exhaustion and lack of energy even with plenty of sleep.
Dark Urine
Urine that appears tea-colored due to bilirubin buildup.
Itchy Skin
Widespread itching (pruritus) without an obvious rash.
Risk Factors
- Sharing needles or injection equipment
- Unsafe healthcare procedures
- Born between 1945 and 1965
- History of blood transfusions before 1992
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves screening for antibodies and then testing the amount of virus in the blood.
HCV Antibody Test
HCV RNA PCR Test
Liver Function Tests
FibroScan (Liver Stiffness)
Common Treatments
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DAA Medications: Direct-acting antiviral pills designed to eliminate the virus from the body.
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Liver Monitoring: Regular check-ups to assess liver damage or development of cirrhosis.
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Liver Transplant: An option if chronic Hepatitis C has caused severe, end-stage liver failure.