What Is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and is transmitted through contact with infected blood. The virus can lead to inflammation and damage in the liver, which, if left untreated, may progress to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
How is Hepatitis C Acquired?
Hepatitis C virus is mainly transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. The most common ways of getting infected include sharing needles for injecting drugs, receiving contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants in the past when rigorous screening measures were suboptimal and going from mother to baby during childbirth. While uncommon, it’s also possible to contract HCV through sexual contact, though the risk is lower compared to other routes.
What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is often considered a “silent” disease because many people do not experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, some common symptoms may include:
- Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy, even after adequate rest, is a common symptom of hepatitis C.
- Jaundice – The yellowing of the skin and eyes characterises jaundice. It occurs when the liver cannot properly process bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.
- Abdominal pain – Some people with hepatitis C may experience discomfort or pain in the abdominal region, particularly around the liver area.
- Loss of appetite – Hepatitis C can lead to a reduced desire to eat, potentially resulting in weight loss.
- Nausea and vomiting – Some individuals may experience bouts of nausea and may occasionally vomit.
- Dark-coloured urine – The urine may appear darker than usual, often taking on a deeper yellow colour.
- Clay-coloured stools – Stools may become pale or clay-coloured due to a lack of bilirubin reaching the intestines.
How Is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?
Hepatitis C can be diagnosed through a simple blood test that detects the presence of HCV antibodies in the bloodstream. If the test is positive, additional tests are conducted to confirm the infection and determine the extent of liver damage. Screening is recommended to ensure early detection and treatment, especially for individuals at higher risk of contracting the virus.
What Are the Complications of Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C can lead to various complications, especially if left untreated or not adequately managed. These complications primarily arise from the inflammation and damage caused to the liver over time. Some of the most significant complications of hepatitis C include:
- Cirrhosis – This is a condition in which the liver becomes severely scarred due to continuous inflammation and damage. Scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, impairing liver function. Cirrhosis can lead to complications such as portal hypertension (increased blood pressure in the liver), fluid retention in the abdomen (ascites), and an increased risk of liver cancer.
- Liver Failure – As cirrhosis advances, the liver’s ability to function properly can be severely compromised, leading to liver failure. Liver failure is a life-threatening condition requiring urgent medical attention.
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Liver Cancer) – Chronic hepatitis C infection increases the risk of developing liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver cancer is a serious and potentially fatal complication of hepatitis C.
- Extrahepatic Manifestations – In some cases, hepatitis C can cause complications outside the liver. It may affect the skin, kidneys, blood vessels, and other organs.
Can Hepatitis C be Prevented?
Yes, there are preventive measures to reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis C. These include avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may come into contact with blood, practising safe sex with the use of condoms, and ensuring that any medical procedures involving blood products are carried out with strict adherence to infection control protocols. Additionally, screening of blood donations and organ transplants has significantly reduced the risk of transmission through these routes.
What Are the Medications for Hepatitis C?
Effective antiviral medications are available now to cure hepatitis C with a high success rate. These medications target the virus and prevent its replication in the body. Successful treatment can prevent the progression of liver-related complications in the future.
What Are the Tips and Precautions if Living with Hepatitis C?
If you live with hepatitis C, there are several tips and precautions to ensure better liver health and overall well-being. These include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and certain medications that may harm the liver, staying up to date with vaccinations for other infections like hepatitis A and B, and following your doctor’s recommendations for monitoring and managing the condition effectively.
It’s also crucial to seek emotional support and stay connected with healthcare professionals who can help you navigate the challenges of living with hepatitis C.
