Sue Doherty on hepatitis C awareness

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It can cause both acute and chronic infections. In severe cases, it can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. This can occur through sharing needles, non-sterile medical equipment, and sometimes through sexual contact or from mother to child during childbirth.

Many people with hepatitis C have no symptoms until liver damage becomes apparent. When symptoms do occur, they can include fatigue, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, jaundice, dark urine, and abdominal pain.

Anyone can be at risk, but those at higher risk include people who inject drugs, those with a history of blood transfusions before 1991, healthcare workers, and people born to mothers with hepatitis C.

A blood test can diagnose hepatitis C. In the UK, you can get tested through your GP, sexual health clinics, or specialist drug treatment services.

Currently, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C. Prevention focuses on reducing the risk of exposure to the virus.

Antiviral medications can cure most cases of hepatitis C. The type of medication and duration of treatment depend on various factors, including the strain of the virus and the extent of liver damage.

Yes, hepatitis C can often be cured with antiviral medications. A sustained virological response means the virus is undetectable in the blood six months after treatment, indicating a cure.

No, hepatitis C cannot be spread through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food and drinks. It is only spread through blood-to-blood contact.

Preventive measures include avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, ensuring medical equipment is sterile, practicing safe sex, and avoiding tattooing or piercing with non-sterile equipment.

If you think you've been exposed to hepatitis C, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early testing and diagnosis can improve the effectiveness of treatment.

Chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious liver conditions including fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Around 20% of chronically infected individuals develop cirrhosis within 20-30 years.

Yes, there is a risk of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis C during childbirth, although it is relatively low. Pregnant women with hepatitis C should discuss their condition with their healthcare provider.

The impact on daily life varies; some people may experience symptoms like fatigue that affect their day-to-day activities. It’s essential to follow medical advice, including potential lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol intake.

Support is available from healthcare providers, patient groups, and charities such as the Hepatitis C Trust in the UK. These organisations offer information, advice, and support networks.