20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL
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Southkenmd.co.uk Clinic is committed to improving health and wellness by creating awareness of critical conditions affecting communities. Hepatitis C is among the most significant viral infections that attack the liver, causing inflammation of the body organ and resulting in serious complications. By understanding the condition, we can prevent, diagnose, and treat it effectively.
Hepatitis C is a viral infection causing inflammation that damages your liver. You can get the infection if exposed to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) after contact with blood that carries the virus. Here are some key facts you need to know about Hepatitis C:
Another difficulty in combating Hepatitis C is its asymptomatic nature. Acute infections are asymptomatic, and chronic infections may remain undetectable for years. Where symptoms are present, they may indicate a common illness or a severe liver disease.
Some common symptoms include:
These symptoms, especially when persistent, should prompt immediate medical attention to assess liver health.
We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.
We’re here to help - get in touch or book your appointment today.
Hepatitis C spreads through contact with infected blood. The most common methods of transmission include:
Contrary to most myths, Hepatitis C cannot be transmitted through shaking hands, hugging, kissing, or even food or beverages.
Hepatitis C must be diagnosed at an early stage to avoid serious repercussions. Nevertheless, because this pathogen is an entropic virus, a person rarely knows they are infected except when severe liver disease is present.
At Southkenmd.co.uk Clinic, we recommend routine screening for Hepatitis C for individuals aged 18 to 79. Testing involves a two-step process:
Additional tests include liver function tests or imaging that determine the severity of liver damage or the patient's treatment plan.
Direct-acting antiviral medications (DAAs) have sparked notable changes in Hepatitis C treatment. These medications are very effective, with cure rates higher than 95% for most people. Treatment may take 12-24 weeks, and the drugs are not likely to cause severe complications, thus making them usable by most patients.
Some widely used DAAs include:
Treatment is tailored based on factors such as the virus genotype, liver health, and other medical conditions. Our clinic provides personalized care to ensure the best outcomes for each patient.
While there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, prevention is possible through simple yet effective measures:
At Southkenmd.co.uk, we also prioritize education and awareness to help reduce the stigma surrounding Hepatitis C and encourage proactive health management.
Hepatitis C infection that endures over many years can cause serious complications, such as:
There is a growing response globally against Hepatitis C. The WHO health sector strategies are based on the goal of eradicating Hepatitis C by 2030, with a focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and better treatment facilities.
Our work aligns with such set goals: to promote accessible testing and treatment, integrate simplified models of care, and collaborate with various community-based organizations that reach the most vulnerable populations.
Living with Hepatitis C can be overwhelming, but it will not be so if you get the support that you require and adequate care. We encourage patients to take steps to protect their liver, such as:
Our team is here to guide patients through their journey, offering counselling, treatment, and lifestyle recommendations to ensure they achieve the best possible health outcomes.
If you have any other questions about Hepatitis C or would like to schedule an appointment to get tested, please don't hesitate to contact us. Your health is our concern.
20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL