Hepatitis C is a well-known liver condition which is initiated by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The liver is responsible for the production of bile which aids in the proper digestion of food and substances in the body. It is also responsible for the removal of harmful toxins in the body. It is most at times referred to as ‘hep C’.
This liver illness most at times, causes damages to your liver and prevents it from performing its functions. Most times, it is difficult to detect if an individual is contaminated with the hepatitis C virus because it does not show signs or symptoms of development.
Research has shown that having sex with your fellow man can increase your chances of contracting the hepatitis C virus. Making use of condoms and practising safe sex is an approved way of preventing this virus.
Men factor
It is harder for men to repel against the hepatitis C virus than women if they get infected. Research has shown that men have low clearance rates when it comes to this virus.
The clearance rate is known as the ability of a man’s body to drive off viruses so that it becomes absent in your body. Fewer men can resist this virus than women.
The reason for this occurrence is not yet clear to researchers; however, it could be as a result of the period, in which a man is infected with the hepatitis C virus if he has other underlying issues like HIV or AIDS and the entrance of the infection like through blood or sexual activities.
How is Hepatitis C spread?
Hepatitis C is a well-known blood-borne illness; this entails that it can be contracted by blood-to-blood contact with an infected person. This can happen in numerous well, of which sex is inclusive. Men who are constantly active when it comes to anal sex have the highest chances of contracting the hepatitis C virus.
This occurs because your anus possesses tender tissues which can easily be torn and cause to bleed. You have high chances of contracting the hepatitis C virus if you get tattoos using an infected needle, use infected needles for injectable medications and having AIDS or HIV.
You can even contract this virus if you make use of the toothbrush or scissors of someone who has the virus.
Types of Hepatitis C
The two types of hepatitis C virus are known as the acute and chronic hepatitis C. Acute hepatitis C occurs when the virus develops in your body for a short time. This stage of the hepatitis C virus can be easily fought off in six months.
The chronic stage of the hepatitis C virus is a type of liver condition which lasts for a long period. This stage of hepatitis C is usually hard to restrict from progressing and can eventually result in severe liver cancer or illness.
The symptom of Hepatitis C
A major factor to which hepatitis C can be very chronic and severe is its lack of visibility for many years. Few men do not even notice any symptom of the virus until it progresses till the final and chronic stage of hepatitis C.
After few years of developing the hepatitis C virus, an individual with the virus can live up to eight years without noticing any sign of the infection.
Even though most men do not experience signs and symptoms when they develop this virus, there are certain indications which can signify that an individual has hepatitis C like stomach ache, high fever, and loss of appetite, muscle pain, and diarrhoea.
How do I know if I have Hepatitis C?
Immediately as you suspect that you have contracted the hepatitis C virus, you must visit your doctor for diagnoses. Your doctor is liable to run various tests to diagnose whether you have hepatitis C virus or not.
They might also run a biopsy on the liver to detect if you have the virus. This entails that a needle would be used to remove a part of your liver to run tests. Running biopsy on your liver would aid in the determination of its current situation.
Treating Hepatitis C
Having acute hepatitis C could entail that there is no need for medications. If an individual with chronic hepatitis C is diagnosed, your doctor must monitor your liver functioning during a regular period.
In rare situations, the hepatitis C virus affects the liver and destroys it totally that it becomes unable to function properly.
An infected individual might need a liver transplant of the infection gets worse. However, if this condition is detected on time, there would be no need for a liver transplant.
How to prevent the spread of Hepatitis C
Individuals who are infected with the hepatitis C virus can prevent its spread by following some simple procedures like:
- Intake of certain drugs known as direct-acting antivirals for the treatment of hepatitis C.
- Coverage of bruises or cuts to stop people from coming in direct contact with your blood.
- Lack of donation of organs, semen and blood.
- Communicating about your condition with your partner
- Practising safe sex with your partner.
Tests for Hepatitis C virus
Having certain symptoms might not be enough evidence for your doctor to diagnose you with hepatitis C. It is very necessary to communicate with your doctor if you are exposed to the hepatitis C infection.
Various blood tests might be carried on you to diagnose if you have the virus or show signs of infection. Various types of tests can be conducted to know the level of hepatitis virus in an individual.
Hepatitis C antibody
There are some specific ingredients which once entered into your body can cause the immune system to produce antibodies. These certain antibodies are created to destroy the unknown substances which enter your system.
Once you get infected with this virus, your body automatically produces hepatitis C antibodies whose function is the restriction of the spread of the virus.
If your doctor tests your body for hepatitis C antibody, and it comes out positive, it could mean that you have contracted the hepatitis C virus.
Hepatitis C medication
Numerous medications are available for the treatment of the hepatitis C virus in men, the antivirals and interferons inclusive. However, there are also numerous medications which are not suitable in the treatment of the hepatitis C virus.
If your doctor is aware of your exact genotype, it will aid immensely in the knowledge of treatment which would be suitable for you.
Complications linked with Hepatitis C
There are various issues which are closely associated with the hepatitis C virus-like cirrhosis or even cancer of the liver. Later one, people with the chronic stage of hepatitis C might require a liver transplant for effective living.
The issues which occur as a result of this infection are numerous, and you must get diagnosed as soon as possible. The early administration of these medication aids in the prevention of future complications.
Hepatitis C guidelines
The best set of guidelines to adhere to if you have been diagnosed with this infection is that which is given to you by your doctor or therapist.
There are, however, other factors which you can put into considerations to reduce your chances of having further complications like a change in lifestyle and engaging in regular but moderate exercises.
Hepatitis C screening
The hepatitis C virus is an infection whose passageway is the blood, unlike most infectious illness, thereby making it not easily transmittable. There are basic medications for this infection though they can have some chronic or fatal side effects.
The best option you can take is to prevent the transmission or contraction of this infection. Once you contract the hepatitis C virus, you must start medications as soon as possible and if you are aware that this infection has a high chance of occurring to you, go for regular checkups.
Living with Hepatitis C
If you are diagnosed with hepatitis C, it can be quite shocking and difficult for you to cope with in the beginning phase. However, there are varieties of ways in which you can live a healthy life even if you have an infection.
These ways include:
Dieting and nutrition
Eating a healthy diet and following certain nutrition standards is highly advised for individuals who are diagnosed with hepatitis C. The consumption of a healthy meal can reduce your chances of developing further complications as a result of the hepatitis C virus.
Limit the intake of alcohol
Excessive intake of alcohol is known to cause severe and chronic damages to the liver. Once a person has been diagnosed with hepatitis C, it is paramount that he or she cuts back on their consumption of alcohol.
Dealing with fatigue
This is a well-known symptom of hepatitis C, and you must engage in stress-relieving activities to reduce these complications. You can go for a walk, spend quality time with friends and family or even watch a movie.
Conclusion
Hepatitis C virus is an infection which has a high risk of affecting men more than women; it damages the liver in both men and women and causes it to seize its proper functioning.
There are certain factors which can indicate that you have contracted this infection like fatigue, loss of muscle mass and depression. This infection can, however, be prevented by engaging in safe sex and using sterilized sharp objects such as needles.
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