Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C (HCV) is one of the most common types of viral hepatitis and a leading cause of chronic liver disease. This infection affects the liver, causing inflammation that can interfere with normal liver function and, over time, may lead to serious liver damage.

The good news: hepatitis C is curable. With today’s advanced antiviral treatments, most people can successfully eliminate the virus and reduce their risk of long-term liver complications.

What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The virus primarily affects the liver and can cause inflammation and damage over time.

Hepatitis C may be either:

• Acute hepatitis C – a short-term infection that occurs within the first six months after exposure
• Chronic hepatitis C – a long-term infection that remains in the body for more than six months and may lead to progressive liver damage

Without treatment, chronic hepatitis C can increase the risk of:

• Liver scarring (cirrhosis)
• Liver cancer
• Liver failure

How Is Hepatitis C Spread?

Hepatitis C is spread through contact with infected blood.

The most common ways people contract hepatitis C include:

• Sharing needles or syringes for drug use
• Using tattoo or piercing equipment that has not been properly sterilized
• Accidental needle-stick injuries, especially among healthcare workers
• Sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes that may have blood on them

In the United States, hepatitis C transmission through blood transfusions and organ transplants is now rare because donated blood and organs undergo extensive screening.

Can Hepatitis C Spread Through Casual Contact?

No. Hepatitis C is not spread through everyday contact.

You cannot get hepatitis C from:

• Sharing food or drinks
• Hugging or shaking hands
• Kissing
• Coughing or sneezing
• Being around someone who has hepatitis C

Hepatitis C spreads through blood exposure, not casual contact.

What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C?

Many people with hepatitis C do not experience symptoms, especially during the early stages of infection. As a result, some people may have the virus for years without knowing they are infected.

Symptoms of Acute Hepatitis C

When symptoms occur, they usually appear within two weeks to six months after exposure and may include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Fever
• Stomach or abdominal pain
• Body aches
• Joint pain
• Itchy skin
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis C

Chronic hepatitis C may remain silent for many years. When symptoms develop, they may be signs of liver damage rather than the virus itself.

Symptoms may include:

• Ongoing fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Jaundice
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Swelling in the legs
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen
• Spider-like blood vessels on the skin
• Confusion, difficulty concentrating, or slurred speech

How Is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?

Hepatitis C is diagnosed through blood tests that detect whether the virus is present in the body.

Testing can determine:

• Whether you have been exposed to hepatitis C
• Whether you have an active infection
• How much virus is present in your blood (viral load)

Because many people do not have symptoms, screening is important for individuals who may be at risk.

How Is Hepatitis C Treated?

Hepatitis C is typically treated with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications. These medicines work by stopping the virus from multiplying and allow the body to clear the infection.

Treatment recommendations depend on factors such as:

• The specific strain (genotype) of hepatitis C
• The amount of liver damage present
• Other medical conditions
• Previous hepatitis C treatments

Most treatment plans are completed within several weeks to a few months.

Is There a Cure for Hepatitis C?

Yes. Hepatitis C can be cured.

Modern antiviral medications can eliminate the virus in most people. A person is considered cured when hepatitis C is no longer detected in the blood three months after completing treatment.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious liver complications.

Advanced Liver Disease and Transplantation

In some cases, chronic hepatitis C may cause severe liver damage requiring a liver transplant.

A liver transplant can replace a damaged liver but does not eliminate hepatitis C. Antiviral medications are used before or after transplantation to treat the infection and prevent recurrence.

Can Hepatitis C Be Prevented?

Unlike hepatitis A and hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C.

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid contact with infected blood.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Hepatitis C?

You can lower your risk by:

• Never sharing needles or syringes
• Seeking treatment for substance use if needed
• Choosing licensed, reputable tattoo and piercing facilities that follow strict infection-control practices
• Following blood safety precautions if you work in healthcare
• Avoiding sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes
• Practicing safer sex, especially with multiple partners or if there is a risk of blood exposure

When Should I Get Tested for Hepatitis C?

Talk with your healthcare provider about hepatitis C testing if you:

• Have ever injected drugs
• Received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before widespread screening was available
• Have been exposed to infected blood
• Have risk factors for hepatitis C
• Have unexplained liver problems

Early detection and treatment can protect your liver and help prevent serious complications.