Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, leading to inflammation and significant liver damage over time. Discover what you need to know about the infection including symptoms, diagnosis and management.
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is one of several viruses that cause hepatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the liver. HCV is a bloodborne virus, meaning it is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact. This can happen through sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs, receiving contaminated blood transfusions (particularly before 1992, when widespread screening of blood supplies began), and, less commonly, through sexual contact or from mother to child during childbirth.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Many people with Hepatitis C do not exhibit symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and nausea. Because these symptoms are non-specific and can be mistaken for other illnesses, Hepatitis C often goes undiagnosed until more serious liver damage has occurred.
To diagnose Hepatitis C, a blood test is required to detect the presence of HCV antibodies.1 If antibodies are found, additional tests will determine whether the virus is currently active and measure the level of viral RNA in the blood. Liver function tests and imaging studies may also be performed to assess the extent of liver damage.
Treatment and Management
In recent years, significant advances have been made in the treatment of Hepatitis C. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications have revolutionized treatment, offering cure rates of over 90% with shorter treatment durations and fewer side effects compared to previous therapies. These medications target specific steps in the HCV life cycle, preventing the virus from replicating.2
Treatment duration and choice of medication depend on various factors, including the genotype of the virus, the extent of liver damage, and whether the patient has been treated previously. It’s important for individuals with Hepatitis C to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan.
Prevention
Preventing Hepatitis C involves reducing the risk of exposure to the virus. Key prevention strategies include:
- Avoiding Needle Sharing: People who use injectable drugs should never share needles or other drug paraphernalia.
- Safe Medical Practices: Ensuring that medical procedures, including blood transfusions and injections, are performed with sterile equipment.
- Screening and Testing: Regular screening for individuals at high risk, such as those with a history of intravenous drug use or those who received blood transfusions before 1992.
- Safe Sex Practices: Using barrier methods, such as condoms, can reduce the risk of sexual transmission.
Living with Hepatitis C
For those diagnosed with Hepatitis C, early intervention and treatment are crucial. Regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage the condition and prevent complications. Avoiding alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active are important steps in maintaining liver health.
Learning More About Hep C
In conclusion, while Hepatitis C can be a serious and potentially life-threatening illness, advances in treatment have made it possible to cure the infection and prevent severe liver damage. Awareness, prevention, and timely medical intervention are key to combating this silent epidemic.