Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection spread through blood-to-blood contact that can inflame and damage the liver.

Some people have no noticeable illness for a long time, while liver inflammation continues quietly. A test is the only way to confirm infection, and modern antiviral medicines can clear the virus for many people.

Many people with hepatitis C feel well, particularly early on. When symptoms occur, fatigue and jaundice are common presentations of hepatitis C. Other possible changes include nausea, reduced appetite, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal discomfort or aching joints.

Yellowing of the eyes or skin, very dark urine, confusion, marked abdominal swelling, or vomiting blood needs urgent medical assessment.

The virus is transmitted when blood carrying hepatitis C enters another person's bloodstream. This can happen through shared injecting equipment, unsterile equipment used for procedures, or an accidental needle injury. It may also have occurred from healthcare or blood products received in places or periods where screening practices differed.

Hepatitis C is not spread by ordinary social contact such as sharing food, hugging, coughing, or using the same toilet.

After exposure, infection may be short-lived or persist. Ongoing infection can cause scarring of the liver over time. The pace differs between people and may be affected by other liver conditions, alcohol use, and some medicines or supplements.

Regular follow-up helps a clinician assess liver health and decide whether treatment or additional monitoring is needed.

Consider discussing a test if you have ever injected drugs, shared equipment that could contain blood, had a needlestick injury, received a tattoo or piercing with uncertain hygiene standards, or had medical care where sterile equipment could not be assured. A sexual health clinician can help assess individual circumstances.

Testing usually starts with a blood test that looks for evidence of contact with the virus. If needed, a further blood test checks whether virus is currently present. Liver blood tests and other assessments can show how the liver is functioning and whether there are signs of scarring.

Tell the clinician about medicines, herbal products, supplements, past procedures, and any possible blood exposure so testing and advice can be tailored.

Treatment commonly uses a course of direct-acting antiviral tablets selected by a specialist or clinician experienced in hepatitis care. Before treatment, they check the virus result, liver health, other medical conditions, and possible interactions with regular medicines.

Do not stop prescribed medicines or start supplements without checking first. A follow-up blood test after treatment checks whether the virus has cleared.

Until a clinician confirms the virus has cleared, avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, nail tools, or injecting equipment because tiny amounts of blood can remain on them. Cover open cuts and use barrier protection for sex when there may be blood exposure. Keep appointments even if you feel well.

Untreated long-term inflammation may lead to significant liver scarring, reduced liver function, or liver cancer. These complications relate to ongoing hepatitis C infection; they are not a diagnosis based on symptoms alone. Timely testing and treatment reduce the opportunity for continuing viral inflammation.

Use sterile, single-use equipment for injections and procedures involving skin. Do not share items that could be contaminated with blood. If you work where sharps injuries are possible, follow workplace procedures promptly after an exposure.

A GP can arrange initial testing and review liver-related symptoms. Ongoing infection may be managed with referral to a liver specialist, infectious diseases clinician, or a service experienced in antiviral treatment.