Hepatitis C is a silent infection that can cause serious liver damage. Understanding its causes and symptoms is the first critical step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones. Don't miss this essential information on managing your health effectively.
What are the main causes of Hepatitis C?
- The primary cause is direct contact with infected blood, often through sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment used for injecting illicit drugs.
- Receiving unsafe medical injections or blood transfusions before 1992, when widespread screening began, posed a significant risk for transmission of the virus.
- Less commonly, the virus can be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or through sharing personal care items like razors.
Key symptoms of Hepatitis C to watch for
- Many people experience persistent fatigue, while some may develop jaundice, which is a noticeable yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
- You might notice symptoms like dark-colored urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, nausea, and a sudden loss of appetite as the infection progresses.
- It is crucial to know that most people with a chronic infection are asymptomatic for decades until severe liver damage finally develops.
How can you prevent Hepatitis C effectively?
- Never share needles, syringes, or any other equipment for drug injection, as this remains the most common and high-risk route for viral transmission.
- Avoid sharing personal items that could have come into contact with blood, such as razors, toothbrushes, or nail clippers, even with family members.
- Ensure any tattoos or body piercings are done by a licensed professional who uses sterile, single-use needles and equipment to prevent cross-contamination.
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Image of the disease Hepatitis C
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Early detection and prevention are vital in the fight against Hepatitis C. If you believe you are at risk, don't wait. Consult a healthcare professional for confidential testing and expert guidance today.
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