Hepatitis C is a health condition that affects many Americans. According to statistical research, there are close to 3 million people in the U.S. with hepatitis C. If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis C, you need to begin treatment. The goal of hepatitis C treatment is to rid your body of the virus. Your healthcare provider can be a source of support and guidance at this time.
Here, we talk about hepatitis C and provide tips for preparing for your hepatitis C treatment.
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is an infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which affects the liver. It is one of several types of viral hepatitis, which include hepatitis A and B. Unlike hepatitis A, which is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water, hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact. This virus tends to persist over time, potentially leading to chronic liver issues if left untreated.
Many people with hepatitis C are not aware they have it until they undergo a routine blood test or experience symptoms years after initial exposure. Early detection can lead to more effective management and treatment outcomes.
How Do You Get Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is usually spread through contact with the blood of an infected individual. The most common way people contract the virus is by sharing needles or other drug injection equipment. However, there are other potential routes of transmission:
- Blood Transfusions/Organ Transplants Before 1992: Before 1992, blood screening methods were not as advanced, so receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before this time could have exposed you to the virus.
- Healthcare Exposure: Healthcare workers and others who regularly come into contact with blood are at higher risk, especially if they don’t take proper precautions.
- Sharing Personal Items: Although less common, sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with someone who has hepatitis C can also lead to transmission.
It is important to note that hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact, such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food and drinks.
Symptoms of Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is often called a “silent infection” because many people do not show symptoms until their liver is significantly damaged.
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine
- Abdominal pain
These symptoms are common to many illnesses, making them easy to overlook or misinterpret. If you experience persistent symptoms, consult a gastroenterologist.
Hepatitis C Treatment
Hepatitis C treatment has greatly improved over the years. Today, direct-acting antiviral medications can often cure the infection by eliminating the virus from the body. These medications work by preventing the virus from multiplying, which allows your liver to heal and prevents further damage.
Antivirals are usually prescribed to be taken anywhere from 12 to 24 weeks. The right antiviral for you can be determined by your doctor after some tests. Direct-acting antivirals can treat acute and chronic hepatitis C in most cases.
It is important to follow your treatment plan exactly as prescribed. Missing doses or stopping early can make the treatment less effective, possibly allowing the virus to become resistant. You can undergo regular blood tests to check the effectiveness of treatment.
Preparing for Treatment: Mental and Physical Health
Preparing for hepatitis C treatment with antivirals involves several important steps to ensure the treatment is as effective as possible:
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider
Before starting treatment, have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider. They will assess your overall health, liver function, and the specific strain of the hepatitis C virus to determine the most suitable antiviral regimen for you.
2. Blood Tests and Health Check-ups
You may need to undergo blood tests and other health assessments to evaluate your liver function, viral load, and any coexisting conditions. These tests help in tailoring the treatment plan and monitoring progress.
3. Review Medications
Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, which include prescription, over-the-counter, and vitamin and herbal supplements. Some drugs can interact with hepatitis C antivirals, so adjustments might be necessary.
4. Mental Health Support
Managing hepatitis C can be stressful. Consider discussing any mental health concerns with your provider and seeking support if needed.
5. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol are important to support your liver health during treatment.
6. Plan for Adherence
Ensure you understand the treatment schedule and are prepared to take your antiviral medications as prescribed. Missing a dose can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
7. Organize Your Routine
Set up reminders or a daily routine to help you stick to your treatment plan consistently.
8. Prepare for Possible Side Effects
You may experience side effects, such as fatigue or headaches. If you are concerned, discuss how to manage them with your doctor.
Navigating hepatitis C treatment might seem challenging, but armed with the right information and support, you can approach it with confidence.
If you need hepatitis C treatment, search for a gastroenterologist near you in your preferred search engine. The search results will show you a list of providers nearby to help you get started.
Hepatitis C Treatment Near Me in Austin, TX
The gastroenterology doctors at Austin Gastroenterology have helped many individuals with hepatitis C make a full recovery. We provide comprehensive treatment and guided support to our patients in all of our 16 locations throughout Austin.
We understand you may be anxious, and we have a compassionate team at Austin Gastro. To schedule an appointment with one of our GI doctors, call our office near you or use our appointment request form.
