Hepatitis C is a disease that causes liver inflammation and can progress into liver failure or liver cancer. The chronic hepatitis C infection remains in the person's body. Hepatitis C may start with a fever, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and fatigue. In the advanced stages of hepatitis C, the symptoms are much more severe.
Cirrhosis
In cirrhosis, the liver begins to lose function and deteriorates. This is a common symptom of people with advanced hepatitis C.
Abdominal Swelling
Abdominal swelling is often a projected symptom. Because hepatitis C affects the liver and renders it unable to operate properly, fluid isn't processed as it should and settles around major organs. Most major organs are located in the abdominal cavity; therefore, the majority of swelling takes place in that central location.
Edema
Edema is characterized by a person having swelling in the lower extremities, such as the legs and feet. The retained fluid, caused by the decrease in liver function, navigates downward and may settle into the feet and legs. This swelling can prevent daily movement and even cause complications such as broken skin, infections and muscle deterioration.
Jaundice
The liver processes bilirubin, a waste product that is normally eliminated through the bowels and urine. When a person with hepatitis C is in the advanced stage, the liver may not be able to process bilirubin. The buildup is projected as a condition called jaundice, in which the skin and eye whites appear yellowish. Sunlight can help eliminate small traces of bilirubin in the blood.
