You have just been diagnosed with hepatitis C and suddenly your life just turned upside
down thinking about the future.
If you have got hepatitis C virus (HCV), it doesn’t always imply you’re unwell or will be in
the future. Nonetheless, the news of the diagnosis comes as a shock. A slew of questions
whirls about in your mind.
Of course, it’s natural to be concerned about what will happen next. So, in this blog, let’s
learn how to live with the disease, manage it, obtain the help you require, and where to seek
medical guidance.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can be acute or chronic. Acute HCV infections are
typically asymptomatic, and the majority of them do not progress to a life-threatening
condition.
Within 6 months of infection, around 30% (15–45%) of infected people naturally eliminate
the virus without any therapy. The remaining 70% (55–85%) of people will get HCV and
develop chronic infections.
Hepatitis C is a virus that spreads through the bloodstream. The following are the most
prevalent routes of transmission:
Here are some things you can do to keep your liver healthy:
A bad diet and a sedentary lifestyle have an adverse effect on a person’s general health and lead
to the malfunction or degeneration of key organs, including the liver, which can further lead
to complications like hepatitis C. If you have this infectious disease, you should try to avoid
or restrict your alcohol use.
In addition, you may be wondering “Do I need a special diet?” Well, you won’t need to
switch to a specific diet, but you will need to eat a good, balanced diet in general because
healthy eating habits and behaviors aid in the correct functioning of your body’s organs.
The risk of HCV transmission through sexual contact is quite low. Simply safeguard yourself
in circumstances when there is a risk of blood contact.
The hepatitis C virus is spread through the bloodstream and there is no danger in ordinary
life. Kissing, touching, and using communal bathrooms and washing machines are all
permitted. It is pointless to wash one’s dishes in a specific manner. Hepatitis C is not
transferred by saliva, cough, or perspiration.
Just avoid sharing items especially toiletries: razors, clippers, tweezers, toothbrushes, and
dental equipment. In addition, if you are suffering from other health conditions, it is wise to
notify your health experts with whom you may be in touch (nurse, acupuncturist, etc.). If
notifying these individuals is a challenge for you, don’t feel bad: caregivers must take the
same precautions with all patients.
Hepatitis C eradication is now a possibility thanks to the development of safe, well-tolerated,
and highly effective (>95 per cent cure rate) 2 direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatments for
HCV infection. However, don’t rely on complementary and alternative medicines as they
won’t cure hepatitis C.
You are not obligated to discuss it if you do not like to. However, it is advised that you
devote yourself to at least one individual for your personal balance. Look for people who can
help you: it doesn’t have to be a romantic relationship. However, make sure that you talk to
your doctor openly.
Establishing a trustworthy rapport with your doctor is critical for the future. You have the
right to receive as many explanations as you require. Your doctor should direct you to other
resources if you require further information.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a disease that affects the liver, but it doesn’t have to take over
your life. It is possible to enhance your health and enjoy your life to the maximum extent
feasible. For this to happen, it is important to find the right doctor who has a lot of experience
taking care of people with hep C.
Dr Vivek Vij, the best liver transplant surgeon in India, has managed hundreds of thousands
of such cases and has helped them live life carefreely. Get in touch to get the best care.