Frequently Asked Questions About Hepatitis C Infection

This article provides a comprehensive overview of hepatitis C, covering its transmission, symptoms, effects, and treatment options. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis and modern antiviral therapies that significantly improve recovery prospects. Understanding hepatitis C is crucial for prevention and management, reducing the risk of serious liver complications. Stay informed about the causes, risks, and available treatments to protect your liver health and seek timely medical advice for concerns related to hepatitis C.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hepatitis C Infection

Hepatitis refers to liver inflammation that can result from infections or other causes like alcohol consumption, certain medications, or injury. Chronic hepatitis occurs when the condition persists over time, potentially leading to liver failure or death. Viral hepatitis is caused by specific viruses, with hepatitis A, B, C, and delta being the main types. Among these, hepatitis C is considered the most serious due to its severe complications.

What is hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common bloodborne infection globally.

It infects liver cells, causing damage to liver tissues.

HCV accounts for most cases previously classified as non-A, non-B hepatitis.

Annually, it results in approximately 19,000 deaths due to severe liver diseases and cancer.

How is hepatitis C transmitted?

Transmission occurs primarily through contact with infected blood.

Sharing needles or drug equipment increases infection risk.

Blood transfusions prior to screening protocols posed a higher risk, now significantly reduced.

It can also be spread through sexual contact, though less commonly.

HCV cannot be transmitted via food, water, or casual contact like handshakes.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?

Many individuals remain asymptomatic; symptoms may be absent initially.

The disease can cause fatigue, fever, headache, muscle pains, and diarrhea.

Some patients experience weakness and general discomfort.

What are the effects of hepatitis C?

According to CDC, 75-85% of infected individuals develop chronic hepatitis.

The condition can progress over decades, leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Many are unaware of their infection until advanced stages, making treatment challenging.

Long-term infection can impair liver function and cause scarring (fibrosis).

HCV is also linked to hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer.

What treatments are available for hepatitis C?

Initially, treatments involved medications to boost the immune system, aiming to eliminate the virus.

These older therapies had variable success rates and notable side effects.

Since 2011, antiviral drugs have been approved, significantly improving cure rates.

Most modern treatments are protease inhibitors that prevent viral replication.

Typically, a 8-24 week regimen leads to viral clearance from the body.