Hepatitis C

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus that can cause liver disease. Usually Hepatitis C does not have any symptoms. During the first stage (the first 6 months) the virus can go away if treated early. After 6 months, the disease becomes chronic and can cause liver failure, liver cancer, or even death. Of the people who get infected with Hepatitis C, 8 out of 10 persons develop chronic Hepatitis C.

What kind of symptoms accompany Hepatitis C?

During the first stage most people do not have any symptoms. When symptoms develop, you may feel fatigued, loss of appetite, nausea, have belly pain, and the color of skin and eyes may turn yellow. When you develop chronic Hepatitis C, it can take many years before you get any symptoms. At that point symptoms can include bone pain, pain in your belly, excessive bleeding and other symptoms caused by liver damage.

How does Hepatitis C spread?

Hepatitis C is transmitted through the blood of an infected person. This can happen through sharing needles or by sticking yourself accidentally with a Hepatitis C contaminated needle. The probability of getting infected through sexual contact is possible though the chance is small.

How do I get tested for Hepatitis C?

You can come to our facility and our friendly, trained staff will gently draw a blood sample and send it out to the lab. Most results will be back within 24-48 hr. You can come and pick up your results, or we can mail or fax them to you.

Can it be treated?

Hepatitis C may go away by itself; Once it is chronic it can be treated with antiviral medicines to prevent the disease from getting worse.

What if I don’t get it treated?

Untreated Hepatitis C can result in liver damage or death. Unfortunately, there is not a vaccine against Hepatitis C. The best way to prevent Hepatitis C is to not share needles and to use a condom every time when you are sexually active.