Learn about hepatitis C, including its symptoms, how it’s diagnosed, and effective prevention tips. Recognize early signs like jaundice and fatigue to seek timely treatment and prevent serious liver complications. Maintain awareness of transmission risks, especially through blood and bodily fluids, and ensure regular screening if at risk.

Hepatitis C Overview: Symptoms, Detection, and Prevention Strategies

Hepatitis C is a viral disease that primarily harms the liver, caused by the hepatitis C virus. Once infected, the virus usually remains in the liver, impacting approximately 75% to 85% of those affected. It causes liver inflammation and, if left untreated, can lead to serious liver complications. Transmission mainly occurs through blood and bodily fluids, often via sharing needles, contaminated medical tools, transfusions, or from mother to child. Sexual transmission is less common but still possible.

Recognizing Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms typically develop between one to three months after infection, often mild or absent initially.

Early signs of hepatitis C include:

Yellow skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine

Occasional fever

Stomach discomfort

Lack of appetite and weight change

Easy bruising and bleeding

Fatigue and drowsiness

Chronic hepatitis C symptoms

Prolonged infection can cause cirrhosis, liver cancer, or long-term liver damage. Symptoms may include:

Ongoing fatigue and mental cloudiness

Fatty liver changes

Portal hypertension

Jaundice

Unusual bleeding or bruising

Swollen veins (varices) in the stomach and esophagus

Cognitive issues

Extrahepatic effects may also occur, including:

Low platelet counts

Insulin resistance

Diabetic kidney problems

Dry mouth, salivary gland stones, or mouth sores

Some carriers are asymptomatic, known as occult infections, marked by persistent liver enzymes but no detectable antibodies.

Diagnosis and Prevention

Blood tests confirm hepatitis C. Treatment involves antiviral drugs, and severe cases may require liver transplantation. Prevention includes avoiding shared needles, practicing safe sex, and handling blood-related medical procedures carefully. Regular screening is advised for those at higher risk.