Between three and four million adult Americans–many in the baby boomer generation–are infected with the hepatitis C virus. Known for its often silent symptoms and wide-ranging viral genotypes, hepatitis C can be treated successfully. However, remission must be monitored and maintained with the help of an experienced gastroenterologist. Here’s what to know about hep C, treatment options, and post-treatment care.
The Dangers of Hepatitis C
Highly transmissible through body fluids such as the blood, the hepatitis C virus attacks the liver, the central processor of the human digestive system. The hepatitis C virus infection can be largely asymptomatic for many people, but for others, it causes:
- Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and sclera in the eyes
- Abdominal pain
- Itching
- Dark urine color
- Pale-colored stools
Sadly, the resulting liver damage can be substantial, leading to liver damage, cirrhosis, liver failure, cancer, and even patient death. As such, gastroenterology physicians and researchers recommend routine blood tests for hepatitis C for people who fall into the at-risk age group and for individuals who engage in drug use.
Treatment of Hepatitis C
Gastroenterologists have seen great success in treating patients with hepatitis C. In fact, up to 95 percent of individuals undergoing today’s drug protocols achieve what doctors call “viral clearance.” These people are no longer actively sick.
Treatment protocols depend primarily on the kind (genotype) of hepatitis C virus the patient has. Additionally, GI doctors consider medical history and current treatments for other health conditions, such as diabetes. Typically, hepatitis C patients receive vaccines against hepatitis A and B if they have not been immunized in the past. Interestingly, some people spontaneously go into remission with no treatment whatsoever.
For those who qualify, drug regimens may take many forms. However, the most common are combinations of these antivirals: Elbasvir and Grosoprevir or Sofosbuvir and Ledipasvir. Therapy may last eight to 12 weeks.
Sadly, some individuals need liver transplants, but because the virus is carried in the blood, these procedures do not cure hepatitis C. Transplant patients also need courses of antiviral medications and follow-up surveillance.
Careful Surveillance in Remission
When blood tests reveal successful viral clearance of hepatitis C, patients must be carefully monitored with blood work, ultrasound testing (in-office, non-invasive FibroScan), and lifestyle changes such as:
- Abstinence from all alcohol
- Keeping a healthy body weight
- Not sharing needles, toothbrushes, razors for shaving, or any other implement that may contain blood
- Talking with a GI specialist about what over-the-counter medications, supplements, and vitamins can be taken safely
- Avoiding processed and high-fat foods
- Increasing intake of fiber, mainly through fresh fruit and vegetables
Hepatitis C Treatment in Central Texas
At Austin Gastroenterology, we have 39 board-certified providers on staff at 17 state-of-the-art offices throughout central Texas. We carefully follow our hepatitis C patients to ensure the best possible long-term outcomes during remission.
To learn more about this prevalent GI disease, call us for an appointment at the location nearest your home or workplace. Or, request a visit through our convenient online form.
