Understanding What is Hepatitis C

This blog is about What is Hepatitis C

What is Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It spreads primarily through contact with infected blood, commonly from sharing needles, unsterilized medical equipment, or, less frequently, from birth or sexual contact with an infected person. Unlike hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C.

The virus can lead to both acute and chronic infections. Acute hepatitis C occurs within the first six months of exposure and may not show symptoms, but in many cases, it progresses to chronic hepatitis C, a long-term condition that can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis (scarring), liver cancer, and liver failure if untreated. Symptoms, if they appear, include fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and nausea.

Hepatitis C is treatable, and advancements in antiviral medications have made it possible to cure most cases of the infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications.