An urgent alert has been issued regarding a significant infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus, with health experts advising individuals to trust their instincts and get tested.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a warning about Hepatitis C, an inflammation of the liver caused by the Hepatitis C virus. Approximately one in four people with Hepatitis C will have their immune system eliminate the virus within a few months. However, in some cases, the virus can persist for months or even years, leading to what is known as chronic Hepatitis C.
If left untreated, chronic Hepatitis C can severely damage the liver, resulting in symptoms such as profound weakness, weight and muscle loss, abdominal pain, and potentially liver failure if the condition worsens.
In a recent social media update, the HSE emphasized, “Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus. Testing is the only way to confirm if you have it.”
The Hepatitis C virus can be life-threatening and is transmitted through contact with infected blood. This can occur through sharing needles or syringes, or via unsafe medical procedures such as transfusions with unscreened blood products. It is not transmitted through non-blood contact activities like casual social interactions, sharing supplies, or coughing. Although the risk is very low, the infection may be transmitted during unprotected sex if blood is present, such as menstrual blood or minor bleeding during anal sex. The risk is higher if you live with or have sexual contact with someone who has Hepatitis C.
During the initial six months of infection, known as acute Hepatitis C, early symptoms may include:
– Fever (temperature of 38°C or above)
– Fatigue and tiredness
– Loss of appetite
– Abdominal pain
– Nausea and vomiting
– Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
Long-term Hepatitis C symptoms can vary widely among individuals. They may be subtle or significantly impact quality of life. Symptoms can also intermittently improve and then recur. Common symptoms of chronic Hepatitis C include:
– Persistent fatigue
– Joint and muscle pain
– Nausea
– Cognitive issues (often referred to as “brain fog”)
– Depression or anxiety
– Indigestion or bloating
– Itchy skin
– Abdominal pain
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