Hepatitis C is one of six strains of hepatitis that can affect people. According to the Mayo Clinic, all forms of hepatitis affect the liver and disrupt its normal function. Unfortunately, not all patients experience symptoms of hepatitis C, which can lead to an undiagnosed case; the danger of undiagnosed hepatitis C is that it can still lead to damage to the liver. Unlike hepatitis A and B, no vaccine exists for hepatitis C. While treatment options are available for hepatitis C, it requires weekly drug injections and twice-daily oral doses. Lifestyle changes can slow progression of hepatitis C.
Liver Damage and Treatment
The largest danger of hepatitis C is the disease spreading to the liver. According to the Mayo Clinic, even if there are no symptoms present, damage can still occur in the liver. Complications from hepatitis C result in liver cancer, liver failure or cirrhosis, which is scarring of the liver. If a biopsy is done and reveals liver damage, treatment is required. The standard treatment for hepatitis C is a weekly drug injection of pegylated interferon alfa and twice-daily oral doses of ribavirin, according to the Mayo Clinic. The duration of the drug treatment is dependent on the genotype of the hepatitis C.
Preventing Transmission
Patients with hepatitis C will be advised to make lifestyle changes that will prevent transmission, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hepatitis C patients should cover any open wounds, and should not share their razors or toothbrushes with anyone. In addition, patients should not donate blood, semen or organs, and should notify health care workers they come in contact with.
Slowing Progression
According to the Mayo Clinic, certain lifestyle changes can slow the progression of hepatitis C. Patients should avoid alcohol, since alcohol speeds up the deterioration of the liver in hepatitis C. In addition, certain medications, like acetaminophen, can also cause liver damage. The Mayo Clinic recommends a healthy diet with fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, along with exercise and plenty of sleep.
