Hepatitis C

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Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C

Overview

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious liver damage. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through contaminated blood. Until recently, hepatitis C treatment required weekly injections and oral medications that many HCV-infected people couldn’t take because of other health problems or unacceptable side effects. That’s changing. Today, chronic HCV is usually curable with oral medications taken every day for two to six months. Still, about half of people with HCV don’t know they’re infected, mainly because they have no symptoms, which can take decades to appear. For that reason, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a one-time screening blood test for everyone at increased risk of the infection.

Risk Factors

Common risk factors for hepatitis C include:

  • Injecting drugs
  • Having HIV or another sexually transmitted infection
  • Being born between 1945 and 1965, the age group with the highest risk of infection
  • Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992
  • Being exposed to contaminated blood in a healthcare setting

Prevention

Prevention methods for hepatitis C include:

  • Avoid sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs
  • Practice safe sex by using condoms
  • Avoid sharing personal items that may have come into contact with blood
  • Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B to help protect your liver

Treatment

Treatment for hepatitis C typically involves a combination of antiviral medications. Your doctor may recommend medications that target the virus directly and help your immune system fight off the infection. It is important to follow your treatment plan closely and attend all follow-up appointments.

FAQ

1. What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?

Symptoms of hepatitis C can include fatigue, fever, nausea, joint pain, and jaundice.

2. How is hepatitis C transmitted?

Hepatitis C is primarily spread through contact with infected blood. This can occur through sharing needles, from mother to baby during childbirth, or through sexual contact with an infected person.

3. Is there a vaccine for hepatitis C?

There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, but there are effective treatments available.

4. Can hepatitis C be cured?

Yes, hepatitis C can be cured with the right treatment plan. It is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

5. How is hepatitis C diagnosed?

Hepatitis C is diagnosed through blood tests that can detect the presence of the virus in your body.

6. Can I prevent hepatitis C if I have been exposed to the virus?

If you believe you have been exposed to hepatitis C, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Your healthcare provider can recommend steps to help prevent the virus from progressing.

7. Can hepatitis C be passed through sexual contact?

While the risk of hepatitis C transmission through sexual contact is considered low, it is still possible. It is important to practice safe sex by using condoms to reduce the risk of transmission.

8. Can hepatitis C be spread through sharing food or drinks?

Hepatitis C is not spread through sharing food or drinks. The virus is primarily spread through contact with infected blood.

9. How common is hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a common infection, with millions of people affected worldwide. It is estimated that about 71 million people have chronic hepatitis C infection globally.

10. How can I get tested for hepatitis C?

You can talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested for hepatitis C. They can recommend a blood test that can detect the presence of the virus in your body.