Hepatitis C Testing, Treatment and Prevention
Kearny, NJ
Introduction to Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C, a silent invader of the liver, has long been a topic of concern and confusion for many. This educational article aims to shed light on this viral infection, offering a deeper understanding of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatments. Join us on a journey through the intricacies of Hepatitis C as we unravel its mysteries.
How Is Hepatitis C Spread?
At its core, hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Unlike its counterparts, HCV is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact.
This oftentimes includes unsafe injection practices, receiving contaminated blood products, and, though less common, sexual transmission. By understanding how the virus spreads, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves.
Symptoms and Progression
Oftentimes, an individual does not know they have hepatitis C. Symptoms can start as mild fatigue and progress to more severe liver damage. Patients may start to notice that their skin becomes yellow or jaundice. Patients may also have stomach pain and discomfort that is not relieved with common treatments. As the disease progresses, patients will potentially have issues with blood-clotting, fluid buildup in the body, and many times liver failure or cancer.
Testing For Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C testing can be done in multiple ways. Oftentimes, patients will first have a rapid hepatitis c test. These tests ONLY detect antibodies to hepatitis C. An antibody can be best described as the body’s response to coming in contact with a disease. It’s important to know that having antibodies against hepatitis C does not mean you have hepatitis C.
If any individual has antibodies to hepatitis C, they need to confirm that they have an active infection with more extensive blood tests. These blood tests will test for things like hepatitis c viral material to determine if the infection is still active and requires treatment.
Treatment For Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C can be cured within 60-90 days. Our goal is to obtain a sustained virologic response. Sustained virologic response means that the hepatitis C virus is not detected in the blood 12 weeks or more after completing treatment.
Treatment for hepatitis C has been traditionally very expensive and inaccessible to the people who need it the most. With changes in insurance coverage and grants, treatment is more attainable than ever before.
This educational information was provided as a public service announcement by the Healthcare Unity Group Inc. Healthcare Unity Group Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization that assists patients in receiving testing and treatment for HIV, HCV, and STIs at oftentimes at no cost to the patient. The providers at Healthcare Unity Group Inc. are specialists in the field of HIV and HCV medicine. If you or a loved one is suffering from hepatitis c in New Jersey. Please contact Healthcare Unity Group Inc. to see what options are available.
Disclaimer
This information is meant for educational purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to endorse any tests, medications, or any other products or information contained within this article.