Gastroenterology, by video or in person
Hepatitis C
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Hepatitis C
- Usually no symptoms for many years
- Tiredness
- Aches, or discomfort in the upper right of the tummy
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin, which is uncommon
- Signs of advanced liver disease in late stages: a swollen tummy, swollen legs, confusion
Hepatitis C is a virus that infects the liver. It is spread through blood: shared needles or syringes, unsterile medical, dental or tattooing equipment, shared razors or clippers, blood transfusions before screening, and less often from mother to baby or through sex. Most people have no symptoms for many years, while the virus slowly scars the liver, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. A blood test for antibodies shows whether you have ever had it, and a second test (HCV RNA) shows whether the virus is still active. Unlike hepatitis B, hepatitis C can be cured: a course of tablets, usually for 8 to 12 weeks, clears the virus in most people.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms for many years
- Tiredness
- Aches, or discomfort in the upper right of the tummy
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin, which is uncommon
- Signs of advanced liver disease in late stages: a swollen tummy, swollen legs, confusion
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if you vomit blood or pass black, tarry stools, become yellow and drowsy or confused, or your tummy swells quickly. See a doctor if a test is positive, if you have ever shared needles or had unsterile procedures, had a blood transfusion, or have hepatitis B or HIV. A gastroenterologist can confirm whether the virus is active, check the liver for scarring and plan treatment.
Treatment options
- An HCV RNA test to confirm active infection
- A check of liver scarring with blood tests or a liver stiffness scan
- Antiviral tablets for 8 to 12 weeks, which cure most people
- A test after treatment to confirm the virus has gone
- Testing for hepatitis B and HIV, which share the same routes
- Cutting down or stopping alcohol to protect the liver
- Regular liver cancer checks for people who already have cirrhosis
Common Questions
Is there a vaccine for hepatitis C?
No. There is a vaccine for hepatitis B but not for hepatitis C. Preventing it means not sharing needles, razors or clippers, and using sterile equipment for any procedure.
Can hepatitis C come back after treatment?
Once cured, the virus does not come back on its own, but you can be infected again if exposed. Being cured does not make you immune.
Can I start care for hepatitis C by video?
Yes. A gastroenterologist can explain your results on a call, arrange the confirmatory and liver tests, and plan treatment.
Need Help?
A stomach, bowel and liver specialist on a video call, who reads your results and says whether you need a scope or a scan.
See a gastroenterologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified gastroenterology specialist near you.
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