Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a blood borne virus that attacks liver cells. The virus is contracted through contact with infected blood and has an incubation period of anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Routes of transmission include:

· Blood Transfusions
· IV Drug Use
· Sharing Razors or Toothbrushes
· Tattoos and body Piercings.

Hepatitis C was identified in 1989, and in 1990 a Hepatitis C antibody test became commercially available. Rarely do infected patients experience acute symptoms from Hepatitis C, but instead suffer from other ailments related to the disease such as:

· Extreme Fatigue,
· Mental Cloudiness,
· Digestive Problems and Loss of Appetite.

As the disease progresses, it can lead to various levels of fibrosis (scar tissue), then cirrhosis of the liver, and over time liver cancer. There is as of yet, no known vaccine nor cure. The treatments for Hepatitis C include injections of a synthetic form of interferon (a protein that helps the body's cells resist the virus), usually accompanied by Ribavirn, an anti-viral pill. Most experience debilitating side effects. Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and herbal remedies, is often used to treat Hepatitis C. Some patients even integrate both Eastern and Western therapies. Approximately 20% of patients with chronic Hepatitis C will die from liver failure due to advanced liver disease. Others will be forced to undergo a liver transplant. Still, many others, if they take proper care of themselves, can live out a normal life span.