Hepatitis C Symptoms

FAQ About Hepatitis C

Much like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C (HCV) can result in an acute or chronic infection. It can also lead to liver complications. Treatment options are available that help to relieve symptoms of Hepatitis C, but there is currently no cure.

Increase your knowledge of the symptoms of Hepatitis C and what steps to take to enjoy a successful recovery.

What is Hepatitis C?

Also referred to as HCV, Hepatitis C is a virus that attacks the liver. Therefore, it probably isn’t too surprising that “hepatitis” is a disease characterized by the inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A, B, and C are separate viruses but they result in many of the same symptoms. The affect Hepatitis C has on the liver is generally determined by whether the virus is acute or chronic. Unlike Hepatitis A that typically doesn’t require treatment since it often goes away on its own, Hepatitis B and C often produce more serious symptoms and require some form of treatment. Symptoms of Hepatitis C do not often result in death and are generally short-lived. However, HCV can cause complications to the liver that can lead to death.

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A More Detailed Look at Hepatitis C Symptoms

Nearly 80% of individuals infected with HCV will be asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. Those who do show symptoms of Hepatitis C will likely begin to see them present themselves as early as 2 weeks after exposure, but it could take up to 6 or 7 weeks before they become noticeable.

Common symptoms of Hepatitis C include:

  • Fatigue
  • Dark urine
  • Easy bleeding or bruising
  • Fever
  • Joint pain
  • Weight loss
  • Slurred speech, drowsiness, or confusion
  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Itchy skin
  • Loss of appetite
  • Jaundice; yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Bowel movements that are clay-colored
  • Spider angiomas; web-like veins under the skin
  • Swelling of the legs

Symptoms vary from mild to severe depending largely on if the individual developed acute or chronic Hepatitis C symptoms. As previously mentioned, Hepatitis C can lead to unpleasant complications such as cancer of the liver or scarring (cirrhosis). These, and other complications, can still develop if the infected individual shows no outward symptoms of Hepatitis C. This is one of the many reasons we recommend testing for Hepatitis and other STDs that may be asymptomatic.

Hepatitis C Prevention

Hepatitis A and B both have available vaccines, but there is currently no vaccine available for Hepatitis C, making it essential to know of other preventative measures to take.

One of the best ways to prevent Hepatitis C is to become educated on how the virus is transmitted. Hepatitis C is transmitted through sexual contact and blood-to-blood exposure. Those with multiple partners are at greater risk of catching Hepatitis C. Compared to other STDs, HCV is less commonly transmitted through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual activity, but it is possible. Exposure to infected blood through open wounds, by sharing razors, or by sharing needles (intravenous drug use, tattooing, and piercing) is a common way Hepatitis C is transmitted.

It’s true that at one time Hepatitis was commonly transmitted through organ transplants and blood transfusions, but precautionary measures have been practiced since the 1990s to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. Most professional establishments that provide tattooing and piercing take strict sanitary precautions to avoid spreading Hepatitis C, but many amateur tattoo and piercing artists don’t take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Therefore, we strongly urge individuals to take caution when participating in such activities.

Hepatitis C is not easily spread throughout a household. It isn’t spread through sharing food, kissing, hugging, hand holding, sneezing, or coughing. Hepatitis C also can’t survive outside the human body after being at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.

If there is a chance you are experiencing symptoms of Hepatitis C, or have been exposed to the virus, it is recommended that you get tested as soon as possible.

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Testing for Hepatitis C

The only sure way to know if you’ve contracted HCV is to get tested. Once your doctor knows the status of your Hepatitis C they can provide you with the necessary treatment. Testing is simple – only a blood test is required. The test works by detecting antibodies in your system. For the most accurate results, we recommended waiting to test for Hepatitis C until 8 to 9 weeks after exposure to give enough time for the antibodies to show up in your system.

Treatment for Hepatitis C

The treatment you receive for Hepatitis C will depend on the severity of the infection. Fortunately, medicine can cure the virus for approximately 80 to 90% of those infected with HCV. For some, approximately 25% of those infected, treatment won’t be necessary because their body will naturally fight the virus. Most of these individuals will be unaware they ever contracted Hepatitis C.

If you are diagnosed with acute Hepatitis C, it is likely your doctor will prescribe a precautionary antiviral medication to keep you from developing chronic Hepatitis C. For acute Hepatitis C, the general goal for treatment is to be virus free for 12 consecutive weeks, after the patient completes their medication.

Those diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis C make be prescribed a medication that will help to alleviate the symptoms of Hepatitis C. Some consumables, such as over-the counter medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements and alcohol can cause liver damage in HCV-infected individuals. Regular check-ups with your doctor to discuss safety in consuming supplements, medications, and over-the-counter medications can help to ensure your health and safety.

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Pregnancy and Hepatitis C

Wondering if Hepatitis C can be passed from mother to child? The answer is yes, especially for those who have HIV. 4 out of every 100 babies born to a Hepatitis C-infected mother will be born with the virus. If there is a chance you might be pregnant and are worried you’ve been exposed to Hepatitis C, schedule a Hepatitis C test as soon as possible and make sure your doctor is aware of the symptoms you are experiencing.