Hepatitis C Disease Information

Hepatitis C is a contagious viral infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Common signs are tiredness, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, and lack of appetite. In some cases, the virus can cause scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) and liver cancer. Treatment with antiviral medications can help reduce the amount of virus in the body and improve liver function. In serious cases, a liver transplant may be necessary. Vaccines are available to prevent infection, but are not often used. It is important to take preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with body fluids of an infected person, using protection during sex, and not sharing needles. If left untreated, hepatitis C can be life-threatening.

1. Acute hepatitis C: This is a short-term infection that occurs within the first 6 months after exposure to the hepatitis C virus (HCV).
2. Chronic hepatitis C: This is a long-term infection that occurs when the acute infection is not cleared by the body.
3. Genotype 1: This is the most common type of HCV, accounting for about 70% of all cases.
4. Genotype 2: This type is less common, accounting for about 20% of cases.
5. Genotype 3: This type is also less common, accounting for about 10% of cases.
6. Genotype 4: This type is the least common, accounting for about 1% of cases.
7. Recombinant hepatitis C: This is a rare form of HCV that is caused by a combination of two or more different genotypes.

1. Fatigue
2. Nausea
3. Loss of appetite
4. Abdominal pain
5. Dark urine
6. Clay-colored stools
7. Joint pain
8. Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
9. Itchy skin
10. Fever
11. Swelling in the legs and abdomen
12. Mental confusion
13. Easy bruising or bleeding
14. Pain in the liver area

The identification of hepatitis C is typically determined by a blood test. The test searches for antibodies to the virus, which are created by the body in reaction to being infected. If the test is affirmative, a second test is typically done to affirm the diagnosis. This test searches for the genetic material (RNA) of the virus. Other tests may also be done to identify the type of hepatitis C virus and to evaluate the amount of liver damage.

Hepatitis C is an infectious liver malady caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is transmitted through contact with the blood of a person with the virus. Signs of hepatitis C consist of weariness, yellowing of the skin, stomach pain, lack of hunger, nausea, and dark colored urine. Most individuals with hepatitis C don't have any symptoms. Without treatment, hepatitis C can cause serious health issues, including liver destruction, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death.

Hepatitis C is usually treated with antiviral medicines, which are usually taken for 8 to 12 weeks. The most common medicines used are Sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (Harvoni), Daclatasvir (Daklinza), Ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir (Viekira Pak), and Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (Epclusa). In some cases, other medicines such as ribavirin may be used to help the body combat the virus. Your doctor will decide the best treatment plan for you based on your age, overall health, and the genotype of your hepatitis C virus.

1. Acquire Knowledge: Absorb as much as possible about the virus and how it affects your body. Request information from your doctor and read up on the latest research.
2. Follow Your Treatment Program: Abide by your doctor’s instructions for taking your medications and attending any follow-up appointments.
3. Gain Support: Join a support group or speak to a counselor. Connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences can help you cope with the emotional and physical difficulties of living with hepatitis C.
4. Control Stress: Stress can worsen the symptoms of hepatitis C, so it’s essential to find ways to control it. Exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help.
5. Consume a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet that is low in fat and high in fiber can help your body manage the virus.
6. Get Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help you stay healthy and diminish stress.
7. Refrain from Alcohol and Drugs: Alcohol and drugs can worsen the symptoms of hepatitis C, so it’s best to abstain from them.
8. Exercise Safe Sex: If you are sexually active, exercise safe sex to reduce your risk of spreading the virus to others.
9. Take Care of Yourself: Get adequate rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take time for yourself.