Signs and symptoms

Hepatitis C Virus signs and symptoms
In this blog post I will discuss the possible signs and symptoms resulting from a Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection. It is important to be aware that some individuals may be infected with HCV without showing any signs or symptoms. For this reason, it is important to receive appropriate testing, whether or not you have symptoms, if you think you may have been exposed to the virus. 

Symptoms of an acute Hepatitis C include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Itching
• Anorexia and abdominal pain
• Fever
• Jaundice
• Clay-colored stool
• Dark-colored urine
• Fatigue

When do symptoms appear after exposure to HCV?

• Symptoms can appear anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months after exposure to the virus
• The average onset of symptoms occurs at 6-7 weeks after exposure
• Some individuals do not show any symptoms of the disease

Chronic Hepatitis C infection

• Individuals with chronic infection still may not show signs and symptoms
• Liver damage may occur in a chronic infection
• 60-70% of people infected with HCV develop chronic liver disease
• Long term health issues resulting from Hepatitis C may include liver failure, liver cancer, and sometimes death

For additional information about Hepatitis C please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/C/cFAQ.htm#cFAQ41

References:http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/C/cFAQ.htm#cFAQ41

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=te69ip6CEm4