Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C, a silent but potentially devastating liver disease, has long been a cause of public health concern. Despite its prevalence, there is still a lack of awareness about the condition. In this blog post, we aim to shed some light on hepatitis C, discussing its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and the importance of prevention.

Understanding Hepatitis C:

It is a viral infection that mainly affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood. Intravenous drug use, unsafe medical procedures, and unprotected sex are common risk factors for contracting the virus.

Symptoms:

One of the challenging aspects of the disease is its ability to remain asymptomatic for years. Many individuals infected with HCV may not experience any noticeable symptoms during the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea and dark urine. It is important to note that symptoms can vary from person to person.

Diagnosis:

Early diagnosis plays a key role in the effective treatment of hepatitis C. Blood tests such as HCV antibody and HCV RNA tests are commonly used for diagnosis. These tests help determine the presence of the virus and its genetic material in the bloodstream.

Therapy:

Advances in medical science have led to the development of antiviral drugs that can effectively treat hepatitis C. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have become the standard of care and boast high cure rates and fewer side effects compared to older treatments. The duration and specific medications prescribed may vary depending on the genotype of the virus and the overall health of the individual.

Prevention:

Hepatitis C prevention involves adopting safe practices and raising awareness. The main preventive measures include:

• Safe injection practices: Avoid sharing needles or other injection equipment, especially among individuals who use intravenous drugs.
• Practicing safe sex: Using barrier methods such as condoms can reduce the risk of sexual transmission.
• Screening and testing: Regular screening of high-risk individuals, such as health care workers or those with a history of intravenous drug use, can aid in early detection.
• Blood Safety: Ensuring the safety of blood and blood products through proper screening procedures is essential to prevent transmission through medical procedures.

Hepatitis C is a serious health problem that requires attention, understanding and proactive measures. By spreading awareness, promoting safe practices, and prioritizing early detection and treatment, we can work to reduce the burden of hepatitis C on individuals and communities. Together, we can pave the way for a future where this silent threat is effectively managed and its impact minimized.

To get tested and treated for Hepatitis C at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, call our helpline number 9830117733.

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Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.