What are the main symptoms or signs of Hepatitis C: cure now possible?

Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.

When should you see a doctor for Hepatitis C: cure now possible?

See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.

Infectious Diseases

Hepatitis C: cure now possible

Direct-acting antivirals: >95% cure rate

Dr. Inès Bertin

Hepatologist

5 min read

Medical illustration of Hepatitis C: cure now possible

In simple terms

Screening, short-term DAA treatment: eliminating hepatitis C virus has become a reality.

A long silent virus

HCV often infects the liver asymptomatically, progressing to cirrhosis or liver cancer after 20-30 years. Transmission is mainly blood-borne (IV drug use, old transfusions, poorly sterilized equipment).

Expanded screening

health authorities recommends universal screening at least once in a lifetime for adults. Simple serological test (anti-HCV), confirmed by PCR.

Revolutionary treatment

Direct-acting antivirals (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir) in 8 to 12 weeks cure more than 95% of patients, all genotypes combined, with very few side effects.

After cure

Liver monitoring if advanced fibrosis (persistent risk of hepatocellular carcinoma). No immunity: possible reinfection in case of new exposure.

The words explained

Medical terms used above, in everyday language.

Immune system: Your body's defence team: cells that fight germs and repair damage.
Screening: A check-up done before you feel ill, to catch a problem early.

When should you see a doctor?

Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
You already take medication and want to change anything about it.

This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Hepatitis C: cure now possible?: Screening, short-term DAA treatment: eliminating hepatitis C virus has become a reality.
What are the main symptoms or signs of Hepatitis C: cure now possible?: Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
When should you see a doctor for Hepatitis C: cure now possible?: See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.

#hepatitis C #liver #HCV