If you or someone you care about has chronic hepatitis C, you probably want straight answers. Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) is a viral infection that mainly attacks the liver. Left untreated, it can cause scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, or even liver cancer. The good news: modern treatments cure most people. This page gives plain-language advice on symptoms, tests, treatment options, and everyday tips to protect your liver.
Doctors start with a blood test called an HCV antibody test. If that’s positive, a follow-up HCV RNA (viral load) test checks whether the virus is still active. Genotype testing used to guide therapy; now many drugs work across genotypes, but your provider may still order tests to fine-tune treatment. Regular monitoring also includes liver function tests (ALT/AST) and sometimes an ultrasound or FibroScan to see how much scarring your liver has.
Be proactive: bring past lab results to appointments, note any medications or supplements you take, and tell your doctor about alcohol use or history of injection drug use. Those details affect choices and safety during treatment.
Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are the game-changer. Most regimens last 8–12 weeks and cure over 95% of people when taken as prescribed. They’re pills, usually well tolerated, and far easier than older therapies. Your doctor will pick the best DAA based on your liver health, any other medical issues, and current medications to avoid interactions.
Practical tips while on treatment: take doses the same time each day, use a pill box or phone reminder, and avoid alcohol. Check with your provider before starting any new supplements — some can interfere with antiviral drugs. If you have HIV or hepatitis B co-infection, coordinate care carefully; treatment may need adjustments.
No vaccine for hepatitis C exists yet, so prevention matters. Use safer injection practices, never share needles or personal items like razors, and practice safer sex if you’re with multiple partners. If you haven’t had hepatitis A or B vaccines, get them — co-infection can harm the liver more.
After cure, follow-up matters: your doctor will confirm sustained virologic response (SVR) with a viral load test 12 weeks after finishing treatment. If you had cirrhosis, keep getting regular liver cancer screening even after cure. And remember: re-infection is possible, so keep prevention habits in place.
Want next steps? Ask your primary care doctor about testing, find a clinic that prescribes DAAs, or look for community clinics that offer low-cost or covered treatment. With the right care, chronic hepatitis C is a treatable — and often curable — condition. Stay informed, stick with your plan, and protect your liver.
