Essential Insights into Hepatitis C: Frequently Asked Questions
This comprehensive guide covers hepatitis C, including its causes, transmission modes, symptoms, long-term effects, and modern treatments. Learn how to prevent infection and understand the importance of early detection and effective antiviral therapies in managing this serious liver disease.
Hepatitis affects the liver and can result from infections or other factors such as alcohol, certain medications, or injuries. Some forms of hepatitis persist long-term, known as chronic hepatitis, which can lead to severe liver damage or failure. Among the different types, viral hepatitis includes hepatitis A, B, C, and delta hepatitis, with hepatitis C being particularly concerning. This article explores hepatitis C's causes, transmission, symptoms, consequences, and current treatment options.
What is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a common bloodborne virus that targets liver cells, causing damage.
It accounts for the majority of non-A, non-B hepatitis cases historically diagnosed.
Annually, hepatitis C results in approximately 19,000 deaths due to severe liver disease or cancer.
How is hepatitis C transmitted?
The virus spreads through contaminated blood.
Shared use of needles and syringes significantly increases infection risk.
Blood transfusions prior to screening protocols posed higher risks, but now testing safeguards reduce this.
Sexual transmission is possible but less common.
Hepatitis C cannot be contracted through food, water, or casual contact like handshakes.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?
Many infected individuals are asymptomatic; detection often occurs via testing.
Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weakness, headaches, and diarrhea.
Muscle discomfort can also be a sign of infection.
Potential impacts of hepatitis C
According to the CDC, 75-85% of those infected develop chronic hepatitis C.
The disease progresses over decades, potentially causing cirrhosis, fibrosis, or liver cancer.
Many remain unaware of their infection until advanced stages are reached.
How is hepatitis C treated?
Earlier treatments used drugs to boost immunity, with variable success and notable side effects.
Since 2011, effective antiviral medications, particularly protease inhibitors, have greatly improved outcomes.
These drugs inhibit the virus's ability to replicate, often clearing the infection within 8-24 weeks.
