Based on statistics, many individuals are infected with hepatitis C and not even aware of it. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is known to cause a transmittable liver infection that can lead to liver inflammation.
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A case of acute hepatitis C tends to occur in the initial 6 months after the individual has been infected, although there are no symptoms yet. Some are capable of fighting off the infection without causing lasting health issues. As for chronic hepatitis C, it occurs once the virus remains in the body untreated which results to liver damage or even liver cancer over time.
How hepatitis C spreads
Hepatitis C spreads via blood contact with an infected individual. The usual cause of hepatitis C is sharing of needles among intravenous drug users. The infection can also spread via tattoo needles that were not properly sterilized. Even mothers can spread the virus to babies at birth but not through breastfeeding.
Even though the risk is low, the infection can also spread via contact with either fresh or dried blood which can stay infectious up to 16 hours. It is important to use rubber gloves and a solution of one part bleach and 10 parts water when cleaning stray blood.
Misconceptions on how hepatitis C spreads
Remember that hepatitis C is not an airborne illness. It simply means that it cannot spread via coughing, sneezing or sharing food with others. Similarly, this cannot be acquired through kissing or hugging those who have the virus. On the other hand, there is a minimal risk of infection when sharing personal care items that came in contact with infected blood such as a razor or toothbrush.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?
Those who have hepatitis C might not be aware that they have the condition since it rarely triggers any symptoms during the initial 6 months of infection. In case the disease is not treated, the following symptoms can occur:
- Fever
- Jaundice
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Dark colored urine or light-colored stools
If you want to be prepared to manage the symptoms, click here. In case the disease progresses into a chronic case, the liver is involved which leads to the following symptoms:
- Swelling
- Abdominal fluid
- Itching
- Star-shaped vein pattern on the abdomen
- Bleeding
- Bruising
Who are at risk for hepatitis C?
Drug users face a higher risk for acquiring and spreading this condition when needles are shared. Even getting a tattoo with incorrectly cleaned needles can also spread the infection. Others who are also at risk include those who have HIV, those who received blood products prior to 1987, healthcare workers and those who received a donor organ or hemodialysis.
Treatment for hepatitis C
Not all who have hepatitis C require treatment. Some only need regular check-ups and blood testing to monitor the liver function. In some circumstances, anti-viral medication can be prescribed for several weeks to eliminate the virus from the body.