What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that targets the liver, causing inflammation and potential long-term damage. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease in the United States.

There are two main phases of hepatitis C infection:

Acute Hepatitis C: This is the initial phase of infection, which occurs within the first 6 months after exposure to the virus. Many people with acute hepatitis C do not experience any symptoms, but in some cases, acute infection can cause flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, fever, and muscle aches.

Chronic Hepatitis C: If the body does not clear the virus during the acute phase, the infection becomes chronic. Chronic hepatitis C is a serious, long-term condition that can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure if left untreated. It is estimated that over 2 million people in the US are living with chronic hepatitis C.

Symptoms

Many people with hepatitis C do not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Dark urine
• Itchy skin

Since the symptoms of Hepatitis C can be nonspecific and easily mistaken for other conditions, it is crucial to consider testing for Hepatitis C, especially for those at risk, such as individuals with a history of injection drug use, those who received blood transfusions or organ transplants before stringent screening protocols were implemented, and individuals engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors.

Transmission and Spread

Hepatitis C is primarily spread through contact with infected blood. The most common ways the virus is transmitted include:

• Sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject drugs
• Unsterile tattooing or body piercing
• Needlestick injuries in healthcare settings
• Blood transfusions and organ transplants prior to 1992 (when widespread screening began)
• From an infected mother to her child during birth

Hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact, such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food and drinks.

Risks and Complications

Individuals who are at higher risk of contracting Hepatitis C include those with a history of injection drug use, recipients of blood transfusions or organ transplants before strict screening protocols were implemented, individuals born to mothers infected with Hepatitis C, and healthcare workers exposed to needlestick injuries or contaminated blood.

If left untreated, chronic Hepatitis C can lead to serious complications. The most significant concerns revolve around progressive liver damage, which can result in cirrhosis, liver failure, and an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic Hepatitis C is also associated with extrahepatic manifestations, including kidney disease, cardiovascular problems, and lymphoproliferative disorders.

Testing and Treatment

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all adults aged 18-79 be tested for hepatitis C at least once. This screening is important, as many people with hepatitis C are unaware they have the infection.

Diagnostic testing for hepatitis C involves a blood test to detect antibodies to the virus, followed by a confirmatory test to check for the presence of the virus itself.

Treatments for hepatitis C have improved dramatically in recent years. New antiviral medications can often cure the infection in as little as 8-12 weeks with minimal side effects. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing the serious complications of chronic hepatitis C.

If you believe you may have been exposed to hepatitis C, speak to a healthcare provider about getting tested. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing this serious viral infection.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Viral Hepatitis. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/index.html
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Hepatitis C. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-c/symptoms-causes/syc-20354278
3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2021). Hepatitis C. Retrieved from https://www.hhs.gov/hepatitis/index.html