Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is considered to be one of the most serious types of hepatitis due to its ability to cause long-term, chronic infections that can lead to liver damage, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Causes:
HCV is primarily spread through contact with infected blood. The most common causes of Hepatitis C are:
- Sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs
- Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began in the United States
- Using a needle or syringe previously used by an infected person
- Being born to a mother who has Hepatitis C
- Unprotected sex with a person infected with the Hepatitis C virus (although this is less common)
dosha:
According to Ayurveda, Hepatitis C is classified under the Pitta dosha, which is responsible for the digestive fire and metabolism in the body. Pitta dosha is related to liver and liver function, and an imbalance of Pitta can lead to liver damage and inflammation.
Danger without treatment:
If left untreated, Hepatitis C can cause serious liver damage, liver failure, and liver cancer. It is important to get tested and seek treatment as soon as possible if you suspect you may have been exposed to HCV.
Symptoms:
Many people with Hepatitis C do not experience symptoms initially, and the infection may go unnoticed for years. However, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stool
Precautions:
- Avoid sharing needles, razors, or other personal hygiene items that may have come into contact with infected blood.
- Use condoms during sex to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently.
- Get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B to reduce the risk of co-infection.
- Avoid alcohol and limit your intake of other substances that can damage the liver.
- Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight.
- Get regular check-ups with your doctor, and get tested for HCV if you are at high risk.
- Use caution when getting tattoos or body piercings, and make sure that the facility uses sterile equipment.
- Be cautious when handling sharp objects, such as needles or razor blades.
- If you have Hepatitis C, take steps to prevent the spread of the virus to others.
WHO Facts:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 71 million people worldwide have chronic Hepatitis C infection. Approximately 399,000 people die each year from Hepatitis C, primarily from cirrhosis and liver cancer. However, effective treatments are available that can cure Hepatitis C in most people. WHO aims to eliminate viral Hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.