Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). The disease is becoming a major health problem of developing countries including Pakistan because of the lack of awareness amongst the masses.

SYMPTOMS:

Initially the patient does not experience any symptoms; but as the disease progresses one can have:

• Jaundice (yellow eyes and skin)
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Fatigue

HOW DO YOU GET IT?

• Blood transfusion; if the blood has not been screened for HCV
• Unsterilized surgical instruments
• Reused syringes and needles
• An infected mother can pass it on to her baby
• Sexual contact with an infected person

Hepatitis is NOT spread through food, water, sharing utensils or casual contact.

WHO IS AT RISK?

• Anyone with a history of blood transfusion, surgical procedure or dental treatment
• Patients of kidney dialysis
• Intravenous drug abusers
• Baby born to mother with Hepatitis C
• Medical personal treating an infected person

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

You can get a blood test to verify if you have the Hepatitis C virus.

LONG TERM AFFECTS:

• About 75-85% of people who have this infection develop chronic Hepatitis C. It can lead to conditions like: cirrhosis or scarring of the liver.

PREVENTION:

• Educating people and creating awareness.
• Proper screening of blood before transfusion
• Sterilization of surgical instruments in hospitals and dental clinics
• Proper disposal of hospital waste, needles and syringes
• Use of sterilized, disposable syringes and I/V drip sets in clinics and hospitals.

REFERENCES:

• http://www.jpmsonline.com/
• http://www.webmd.com/