Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, potentially leading to inflammation and damage if left untreated. In the United States, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are the most common hepatitis viruses, each caused by different viruses. While they may present similar symptoms, they differ in transmission methods and impact on the liver.
Hepatitis A typically resolves as a short-term infection, whereas hepatitis B and C can progress to chronic infections in some cases. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, but not for hepatitis C, but it can be treated with medications. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
Hepatitis C can be contracted through sharing drug-injection equipment, from infected mothers to infants during birth, through sexual contact, unregulated tattoos, or body piercings, sharing personal items that have encounter infected blood, as well as through blood transfusions and organ transplants. By being aware of these transmission routes, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk of contracting hepatitis and protect their health. Hepatitis C is not spread through breast milk, food, water, or casual contact such as hugging, kissing, and sharing food or drinks with an infected person.
CDC recommends all adults get tested for hepatitis C. Talk to your doctor about getting tested. At Georgia Highlands Medical Services, we offer HEP C screening and treatment. Call us at for an appointment to get tested and to get treatment. To learn more about HEP C click link: https:/www.cdc.gov/knowmorehepatitis/
