Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus, which is transmitted primarily through contact with infected blood, most often through unsafe injection practices, unscreened blood transfusions, or use of contaminated medical equipment. Unlike hepatitis B, most people who contract hepatitis C, roughly three-quarters, develop a chronic infection that persists silently for years or decades, often without causing any symptoms until significant liver damage has already occurred. Chronic hepatitis C infection progressively scars the liver and significantly raises the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer over time if left untreated. A major medical advance over the past decade has been the development of highly effective oral antiviral medications that can cure the vast majority of hepatitis C infections within a few months of treatment. Because early infection is often silent, screening of at-risk individuals is important for timely diagnosis and cure before serious liver damage develops.

The most common symptoms include: Often asymptomatic for years; fatigue; joint pain; abdominal discomfort in the upper right area. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

Yes, Hepatitis C is contagious. It can spread from person to person. Practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and follow isolation guidelines if advised by a doctor.

Treatment options include: Modern treatment relies on direct-acting antiviral medications taken orally for eight to twelve weeks; which cure the infection in the large majority of patients with minimal side effects. Treatment is generally recommended for essentially all patients with chronic hepatitis C; regardless of the stage of liver disease. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Hepatology specialist. Do not self-medicate.

While Hepatitis C cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: Avoiding sharing needles or injection equipment; ensuring blood transfusions and medical procedures use properly screened blood and sterilised equipment; practising safe sex.

Consult a Hepatology specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.