Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver spread mainly through contact with infected blood, such as reused syringes or unsterile medical, dental or barber tools. Most people have no symptoms for many years, but over time it can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer. Today hepatitis C can be cured in most people with 8 to 12 weeks of tablets.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms for many years
- Tiredness
- Mild pain in the upper right belly
- Loss of appetite
- Yellow eyes and skin in some people
- In late disease: swollen belly, swollen legs, confusion
Causes
- Hepatitis C virus in infected blood
- Reused syringes and needles, including injecting drug use
- Unsterile dental, surgical or barber tools
- Unscreened blood transfusions
- Less often, from mother to baby or through sex
Prevention
- Insist on a new, sealed syringe for every injection
- Avoid unnecessary injections and drips
- Make sure dental and barber tools are sterilised; bring your own razor
- Only accept blood that has been tested
- Do not share needles, razors or toothbrushes
- There is no vaccine for hepatitis C
Treatment
- Blood tests to confirm the infection and check the liver
- Antiviral tablets for 8 to 12 weeks cure most people
- Treatment must be prescribed and followed up by a doctor
- Avoid alcohol and unnecessary medicines
- A blood test after treatment confirms the cure
- Do not start antiviral or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Can hepatitis C really be cured?
Yes. Modern antiviral tablets taken for 8 to 12 weeks cure more than 9 out of 10 people. A blood test after treatment confirms the cure.
Can I get hepatitis C again after being cured?
Yes. Being cured does not protect you from a new infection, so continue to avoid unsafe injections and shared razors or needles.