There are several types of hepatitis viruses, and hepatitis C virus is one disease you should not underestimate because hepatitis C virus is transmitted through blood and sexual contact. Once infected, liver cells are gradually destroyed, leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer, which can ultimately be life-threatening.

Who is at risk?

Those who have received blood or blood components due to illness
Those with sexual behavior involving frequent partner changes
Sharing items with others such as razors, toothbrushes, or sharp objects contaminated with blood, for example, tattooing or ear piercing
Those who share drug injection equipment

Symptoms

Hepatitis C virus is a silent threat that can come without warning because there are no symptoms or warning signs in the early stages. Most people find out when they have an annual health check-up, blood test before donating blood, or when symptoms appear. The symptoms usually appear after the infection has been present for a long time, causing liver deterioration, fatigue, and progressing to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Additionally, hepatitis C virus can trigger an overactive immune response and cause abnormalities in various systems such as low platelet count, lymphoma, diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction. Therefore, it is important to observe any abnormalities in your body and have regular health check-ups.

Diagnosis

The best way to detect and treat hepatitis C promptly is through regular annual health check-ups. In cases of abnormalities or suspicion of hepatitis C, doctors will perform blood tests to detect the virus. If the virus is found, an ultrasound will be done to check for cirrhosis or liver cancer. In cases where results are unclear, additional tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required. In many cases, doctors may also perform a liver biopsy for pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment involves using two types of oral medications: interferon group drugs combined with Sofosbuvir and Daclatasvir, which provide good efficacy with about a 90% chance of curing hepatitis C virus infection. Side effects are minimal, and these medications can be used in patients with cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, or organ transplant recipients. The duration of treatment depends on the physician’s discretion for each patient.

Self-care to stay away from hepatitis C virus

Avoid unnecessary blood transfusions and blood component exposure
Avoid contact with the blood of infected individuals; if contact is necessary, always wear gloves
Avoid behaviors involving frequent partner changes and do not have sexual intercourse with someone infected with hepatitis C virus
Prevent infection by avoiding tattooing and body piercing
Do not share sharp objects with others, such as toothbrushes, razors, or nail clippers
Avoid alcoholic beverages as they accelerate liver inflammation
Do not self-medicate as inappropriate drugs may worsen liver inflammation
Have regular annual health check-ups
For those diagnosed with the virus, strictly follow the doctor’s treatment recommendations

However, although hepatitis C virus infection can occur without warning signs, what we can do is have an annual health check-up. Early detection and treatment lead to better outcomes and allow for careful self-care to prevent related diseases from developing.

Dr. Sirinthip Srideemma

Head of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Liver Disease Center

Phyathai 3 Hospital

Warning! Hepatitis C virus visits without notice