Hepatitis C

Overview

Hepatitis C is a bloodborne infectious disease caused by the hepatitis C virus, primarily affecting the liver. Early symptoms are mild or absent, occasionally including fever, dark urine, abdominal pain, and jaundice. In about 75-85% of those first infected, the virus persists in the liver; early chronic hepatitis C is usually asymptomatic but can progress over many years to liver disease and occasionally cirrhosis, with possible complications such as liver failure and liver cancer.

Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Discomfort in the liver area
• Jaundice
• Joint aches

Treatment

Treatment centers on standardized direct-acting antiviral therapy, which cures most patients; use medication under specialist guidance and have regular follow-ups.

Dietary advice

Eat a balanced diet with adequate quality protein, strictly abstain from alcohol, and avoid high-fat and irritating foods.