What happens if hepatitis C is not treated?

Hepatitis C may cause few or no symptoms while inflammation continues. Persistent inflammation can gradually replace healthy liver tissue with scar tissue. Advanced scarring can interfere with the liver's work, including processing substances, making proteins and helping with digestion. Some people develop fatigue or yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice. The course varies, so feeling well does not show whether liver injury is present.

Arrange a GP consultation if you have a positive test, a past exposure, or symptoms that concern you. A clinician may confirm whether the virus is active and assess liver health with blood tests such as a liver function test. Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes or needles, and do not donate blood until a clinician advises that it is safe. Discuss alcohol and medicines or supplements, because some can add strain to the liver.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, severe drowsiness, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal swelling, or rapidly worsening yellow skin or eyes. These signs can indicate serious liver complications. Contact a clinician soon for persistent fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, or new swelling of the legs or abdomen.

Ask whether the infection is active, how your liver is functioning, whether you need further testing, and which treatment plan suits you. You can also ask how to reduce transmission risk and which medicines, supplements or drinks to avoid.