What is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can damage your liver. There are several variations of hepatitis C, with type 1 being most common. It wasn’t discovered until 1989. You can live with the virus for years with no symptoms as it slowly damages your liver. Once symptoms appear, liver damage may not be reversed.
In the United States, hepatitis C infection is the most common cause of chronic hepatitis and the most common reason for liver transplants.
How is hepatitis C contracted?
You get hepatitis C through exposure to infected blood. IV drug use and shared needles is a common reason it might be acquired. Other causes of hepatitis C include:
- Blood transfusion
- Passage from mother to child
- Very rarely through sexual intercourse
- Accidental needle pricks, as in a healthcare setting
- Poorly maintained tattoo and piercing parlors
One in 30 baby boomers have the disease, so all should be tested to prevent long-term complications.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?
In its early stages, hepatitis C has few symptoms. You may have some fatigue during this time but may not associate it with the virus. Later stage symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Jaundice manifesting as yellowing eyes and skin
A blood test reveals whether you have the virus.
Does hepatitis C cause long-term effects?
Hepatitis C causes a long-term, chronic infection called chronic hepatitis C in 75-85% of people diagnosed with the virus. This can lead to complications including:
- Liver cancer
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Premature death
Hepatitis C causes scarring of the liver, so it can’t function normally.
How is hepatitis C treated?
Hepatitis C can be treated with oral medications. How long medication is needed and the necessary dosage depends on the severity of your infection. Injectable drug therapy is also available.
During treatment with these medications, you may experience side effects including:
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Trouble concentrating
- Depression and nervousness
- Flu-like symptoms
If you’re a baby boomer or have been exposed to blood through IV drug usage or a transfusion, consider being tested for hepatitis C. Call Gastro Office for an appointment or book one online.
