What causes Hep C?

Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C is spread through contact with blood from an infected person. Today, most people become infected with the hepatitis C virus by sharing needles or other equipment used to prepare and inject drugs.

Is hep C an STD?

Although not common, hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual activity. Having a sexually transmitted infection, having sex with multiple partners, and engaging in anal sex appear to increase a person’s risk for hepatitis C.

What are the warning signs of Hep C?

Symptoms

• Bleeding easily.
• Bruising easily.
• Fatigue.
• Poor appetite.
• Yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Dark-colored urine.
• Itchy skin.
• Fluid buildup in your abdomen (ascites)

What does hep C do to you?

Hepatitis C can be a short-term illness, but for most people, acute infection leads to chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis C can be a lifelong infection if left untreated. Chronic hepatitis C can cause serious health problems, including liver damage, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver cancer, and even death.

How do you get hep C positive?

Hepatitis C spreads when blood or body fluids contaminated with the hepatitis C virus get into your bloodstream through contact with an infected person. You can be exposed to the virus from: Sharing injection drugs and needles. Having sex, especially if you have HIV, another STD, several partners, or have rough sex.

Does Hep C go away?

Most people who are infected with hepatitis C don’t experience any symptoms for years. However, hepatitis C usually is a chronic illness (which means it doesn’t go away on its own).

How long can u live with hep C?

People with hepatitis C can live many years after diagnosis, but the range varies. A 2014 study showed that patients infected with hepatitis C virus died on average 15 years sooner than people who did not have the illness. With hepatitis C, the liver becomes seriously damaged due to inflammation.