hepatitis c
Hepatitis C is a viral liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood, and can lead to both acute and chronic liver damage, potentially causing cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if left untreated.
What is Hepatitis C?
- Viral Infection: Hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV).
- Liver Inflammation: It causes inflammation and damage to the liver.
- Acute vs. Chronic: Hepatitis C can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
- Transmission: The virus is primarily spread through contact with infected blood.
- Risk Factors: Sharing needles for drug use, unsafe healthcare practices, and unprotected sex are some risk factors.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Asymptomatic: Many people with hepatitis C have no symptoms, or symptoms are mild and may be mistaken for other illnesses.
- Acute Symptoms: If symptoms occur, they may include fatigue, fever, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
- Chronic Symptoms: Chronic hepatitis C often has no symptoms for many years, but can lead to serious liver damage over time.
- Diagnosis: Hepatitis C is diagnosed through blood tests.
Complications and Treatment
- Complications: Without treatment, chronic hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, and liver cancer.
- Treatment: Effective antiviral medications can cure hepatitis C in most cases.
- Prevention: There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but preventing transmission through safe practices like avoiding sharing needles and practicing safe sex can help.
Key Takeaways
- Hepatitis C is a serious but treatable liver disease.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications.
- If you are at risk for hepatitis C, talk to your doctor about getting tested.