Hepatitis C

Overview

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation, which results in significant liver damage. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes Hepatitis C, transmitted through contact with infected blood.

Modern antiviral medications are now the preferred treatment for most individuals with chronic hepatitis C. These medications often can cure chronic hepatitis C.

However, a large number of people with hepatitis C chronic infection are unaware of their infection due to the delayed onset of symptoms, which can take many years to appear.

How Do You Get Hepatitis C Infection?

The primary mode of cause for HCV is exposure to infected blood. Here are the common Hepatitis C causes and modes of transmission:

• Sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment used for injecting drugs 
• Receiving infected blood transfusions or organ transplants 
• Needlestick injuries or accidental exposure to infected 
• Transferring from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth
• Having unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected individual
• Sharing personal items contaminated with blood (such as razors or toothbrushes
• Getting nonsterile tattoos or body piercings using contaminated equipment

Prevention 

Here are ways to protect yourself from hepatitis C infection:

1. Avoid using illegal drugs. If you use them, seek help to stop.
2. Be cautious with body piercings and tattoos. Choose a clean and reputable shop. Ask how they clean their equipment and ensure sterile needles are used.
3. Practice safer sex by using protection with partners whose health status you don’t know. Limit sexual partners to reduce the risk of hepatitis C chronic infection transmission.

What Are the Signs of Hepatitis C? 

Hepatitis C can cause various symptoms, but many people with acute hepatitis c infection may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages. When Hepatitis C symptoms occur, they can vary widely and may include:

• Fatigue
• Jaundice
• Hepatitis C rash
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine
• Clay-colored stools
• Joint pain

Diagnosis

Hepatitis C diagnosis involves several steps: 

• Hepatitis C Virus Antibody Test

The Hepatitis C virus blood test detects antibodies produced in response to HCV exposure. A positive result suggests exposure but doesn’t confirm active infection.

• HCV RNA Test

If the antibody test is positive, this follow-up test checks for the virus’s genetic material to confirm active infection.

• Genotype Testing

Determines the specific strain of the hepatitis c virus, guiding treatment decisions.

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Measures liver enzyme levels to assess liver health.

• Liver Biopsy or FibroScan

A liver Biopsy may be done to assess liver damage level.

How Do You Get Chronic Hepatitis C Infection?

Chronic hepatitis C infection is primarily acquired through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles or receiving contaminated blood transfusions. It can also be transmitted through unprotected sexual contact or from mother to child during childbirth. However, chronic hepatitis c can cause chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.

Treatment

• Medicines

Antiviral medications can clear hepatitis C infection from the body, aiming for sustained clearance for at least 12 weeks post-treatment. Newer direct-acting antivirals offer improved efficacy, fewer side effects, and shorter Hepatitis C treatment durations (as brief as eight weeks), tailored based on hepatitis C type, liver condition, other health factors, and prior treatments. 

• Liver Transplant

For severe liver damage from chronic hepatitis C infection, a liver transplant may be considered. During this procedure, a damaged liver is replaced with a healthy one from a deceased or living donor. However, a transplant alone does not cure hepatitis C virus infection, and the infection can return. New antiviral medications can effectively treat hepatitis C post-transplant or even before a transplant is necessary.

• Vaccinations

While there is no hepatitis C virus infection vaccine, healthcare providers recommend vaccines against hepatitis A and B to protect the liver and potentially mitigate complications from hepatitis C.

When To See A Doctor

If you suspect exposure or experience symptoms of hepatitis C like fatigue, yellowing of skin or eyes, stomach pain, or pale stools, visit your primary care physician right now. In case of unexplained liver issues or have been in contact with someone with hepatitis C, have a conversation with a healthcare provider regarding tests and follow-up care. 

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about Hepatitis C or any other medical condition, please see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment suggestions.