Introduction
Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Unlike hepatitis A and B, hepatitis C often leads to chronic infection, which can result in serious liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure if left untreated. Many people with hepatitis C are unaware of their infection because symptoms may not appear until significant liver damage has occurred. However, effective treatments are available, and most people can be cured with modern antiviral medications.
Causes
Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact. The most common routes of transmission include:
- Sharing needles or other equipment for injecting drugs
- Receiving contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants (rare today due to screening)
- Accidental needle sticks in healthcare settings
- Sharing personal items that may have blood on them, such as razors or toothbrushes
- From mother to child during childbirth (less common)
- Less commonly, through unprotected sex with an infected person
Hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact, hugging, kissing, or sharing food and drinks.
Symptoms
Many people with hepatitis C have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
- Dark urine
- Pale or clay-colored stools
- Joint pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Chronic hepatitis C can remain silent for years, but over time, it can cause cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hepatitis C is made through blood tests that detect antibodies to HCV and confirm the presence of the virus in the blood. Additional tests may be done to assess liver function and the extent of liver damage, such as liver enzyme tests, imaging studies, or a liver biopsy.
Treatment Options
Modern treatment for hepatitis C involves direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications, which are highly effective and can cure most people within 8–12 weeks. Treatment is tailored to the specific type (genotype) of HCV and the patient’s overall health. Supportive care, such as avoiding alcohol and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, is also important to protect the liver.
There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C.
Prevention
Preventing hepatitis C involves reducing the risk of exposure to infected blood:
- Never share needles, syringes, or drug-injection equipment
- Ensure all medical and tattooing equipment is sterile
- Practice safe sex, especially if you have multiple partners or other risk factors
- Do not share personal items that may have blood on them
- Blood donations are now screened for HCV in most countries
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical attention if you:
- Have symptoms of hepatitis C, such as jaundice or persistent fatigue
- Know or suspect you have been exposed to HCV (for example, through shared needles or a needlestick injury)
- Have ever injected drugs, even once, or received a blood transfusion before routine screening was introduced
Takeaway
Hepatitis C is a serious but curable liver infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term liver damage. If you are at risk, get tested, and if diagnosed, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and monitoring.