|
Hepatitis C is a liver disease that is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The virus enters the liver cells, uses the cell's inner genetic machinery to make copies of itself, which then infect more cells. In about 15% of cases, hepatitis C infection is acute, meaning it is cleared spontaneously by the body and there are no long-term consequences.
Unfortunately, in the majority of cases (85%), the infection becomes chronic and slowly damages the liver over many years. Over time, this liver damage can lead to cirrhosis (or scarring) of the liver, end-stage liver disease, and liver cancer.
In the United States alone, hepatitis C affects about 4 million people, making it much more common than HIV infection. In fact, hepatitis C is the most common bloodborne infection in the United States.
Hepatitis C Transmission
Hepatitis C is spread through exposure to HCV-infected blood--this may occur through IV drug use, a transfusion with HCV-infected blood, contaminated hemodialysis equipment, high-risk sexual behavior, needlestick injuries, contaminated tattooing or body piercing equipment, and in other ways. If you think you or someone you know might be at risk for hepatitis C, find out about getting tested.
Hepatitis C Symptoms
People with hepatitis C infection usually do not have characteristic disease symptoms. Unlike other forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis C infection usually does not result in jaundice. When symptoms do appear, they may be vague and include tiredness, stomach pain, and rash. Because HCV infection often has no symptoms, many people do not know they have hepatitis C and may be infecting others. The only way to know whether you have hepatitis C is to get a blood test for hepatitis C.
| Related Articles |
 |
|
|
