Hepatitis C is a chronic viral infection that affects liver health. It develops from the hepatitis C virus (HCV). A person can transmit HCV through contact with blood from someone who has the infection. Left untreated, chronic hepatitis C can lead to life threatening conditions like:

  • It is called cirrhosis.
  • There is severe damage to the body.
  • The cancer of the liver.
  • There is a need for a transplant.

The earlier you treat it, the less it will affect you. If you receive treatment in the beginning, your body may be able to heal itself.

There are currently many types of antiviral treatments that can cure hepatitis C in a matter of weeks, and they may lead to improved symptoms and physical and mental well-being.

“Your doctor will test you after you have finished your treatment for the disease. This will happen after 12 weeks. You won’t know if the treatment worked without this confirmation.”

A sustained response to the hepatitis C treatment is usually achieved. An SVR status means that your condition is cured and that there is no trace of the virus in your blood.

Treatments for hepatitis C are typically more effective than ever before. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there is a 95 percent chance your condition may be cured with an antiviral treatment that lasts 8 to 24 weeks.

“You can get the disease again after treatment. It is important to avoid exposure to other people’s blood. If you share needles, this exposure can happen.”

If your final blood test shows an SVR, your doctor may advise you on whether to continue medical treatment or monitor for conditions caused by the disease.

You may not have a successful treatment for the disease. This can happen because of a few reasons, including having a difficult time following the treatment protocol. Your doctor can discuss your options with you, and you may be able to try another treatment.

“The treatments for hepatitis C are usually very successful, but that doesn’t mean they are always effective and there is a lack of research on the long-term outlook of the treatment.”

For example, a small 2019 study found that you could develop an occult infection of hepatitis C many years after curing the condition, but it did not lead to serious liver conditions. An occult infection of hepatitis C is an infection that develops when the RNA of the virus is in the liver cells and some others, but not in the blood.

The same study above also indicated you may have a higher chance of The cancer of the liver. even after treatment. It concluded that more research needs to be done in these areas.

Another risk related to treatment is that people who have both hepatitis C and underlying hepatitis B can experience a reactivation or a flare of hepatitis B while receiving hepatitis C treatment.

If you have chronic hepatitis B, it is advisable to speak with a hepatitis expert before starting your treatment for hepatitis C.

You may contract HCV if you use injectable drugs and share needles with others. A 2020 study found many positive outcomes among people using injectable drugs who decided to get treatment for hepatitis C. These included:

  • An optimistic outlook on the future.
  • Improved self-esteem.
  • A new belief in their abilities.
  • confident feelings
  • The energy levels have improved.

The study found that people who stopped using drugs after treatment had more beneficial outcomes than people who continued using them.

Your doctor can prescribe the treatment for the disease. They will often discuss the scope of treatment, the medications to take, and when to have appointments.

Your doctor can recommend a treatment based on your specific type of hepatitis C, the amount of damage to your body, and previous treatments for the disease.

Treatment includes a number of tests to monitor your progress. It is important to follow all aspects of the treatment plan.

Your doctor’s office may also be able to answer questions about how to pay for treatment. Often, private or government insurance covers hepatitis C treatment partially or entirely.

It is important to stay on top of your treatment for hepatitis C, which may increase your chance of a favorable outlook. Here are some tips you can use to manage treatment.

  • Keep paperwork in one place.
  • You can add medication and appointment reminders to your calendar.
  • When you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor and other people on your medical team.
  • Ask your doctor if you should avoid any supplements, herbal remedies, or medications that may be harmful to the liver.
  • Side effects should be managed as recommended by your doctor. Find out what over-the-counter drugs you can take.
  • Try to eat a well-rounded, healthy diet, exercise the best you can, and get enough sleep during treatment.
  • Alcohol can cause stress on the liver.

The treatment for the disease is very effective. The condition contributes to your overall well-being by avoiding further damage to the liver. If you have the disease, you should talk to your doctor about a treatment plan. Treatment can improve your health and reduce the chance of passing it on.