Votre Référence pour l’Hépatite C au Québec

Key Points About Hepatitis C

Can you be cured from hep C? Yes, Hepatitis C is curable.

More than 95% of people are cured in just 8–12 weeks.

Une illustration montrant plusieurs éléments liés à l'hépatite C, incluant : Un foie stylisé pour représenter l'organe principalement affecté Une seringue pour évoquer le mode de transmission par le sang Un visage fatigué pour symboliser la fatigue, un symptôme courant Une silhouette avec une teinte jaunâtre sur la peau et les yeux pour illustrer la jaunisse Un tube à essai de sang pour représenter les tests de dépistage Des pilules pour symboliser le traitement antiviral Un calendrier pour évoquer la nature chronique potentielle de l'infection

Understanding Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a serious viral infection that primarily affects the liver. It’s important to understand that:

  • Hepatitis C is curable with modern treatments 12.
  • Without treatment, most infections become chronic, potentially leading to lifelong health issues1.

Treatment and Prevention

  • Effective treatments are now available that can cure hepatitis C12.
  • Early treatment is crucial to prevent severe complications such as:
    • Liver scarring (cirrhosis)
    • Liver cancer
    • Potential death from liver-related causes1

Action StepsIf you have hepatitis C:

  1. Consult your healthcare provider immediately about treatment options1.
  2. Don’t postpone treatment, as early intervention is key to better outcomes1.
  3. Learn about liver protection and preventing transmission to others1.

Awareness and Education

  • Healthcare providers play a vital role in educating patients about hepatitis C 23.
  • Public awareness campaigns can help support risk-based screening and testing2.

By understanding these key points, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and take proactive steps in managing hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C Treatment: A Simple Guide

Understanding Modern Treatment

Since 2014, highly effective and safe treatments for hepatitis C have been available. These treatments can cure the disease in most cases. However, it’s concerning that few people receive treatment within a year of diagnosis.

Key Facts About Treatment

  • Effectiveness: More than 95% of people are cured in just 8–12 weeks.
  • Ease of Use: Treatments are oral medications (pills) called direct-acting antivirals (DAAs).
  • Side Effects: Very few side effects, making treatment more comfortable.

Why Early Treatment MattersWaiting to get treatment can lead to serious health problems:

  • Severe liver damage
  • Liver cancer
  • Potential death from liver-related complications

Think of it this way: treating hepatitis C early is like fixing a small leak in a roof before it causes major damage to your entire house.

Steps After Diagnosis

  1. Consult Your Doctor: Discuss treatment options immediately after diagnosis.
  2. Additional Tests: Get tested for HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV).
  3. Vaccinations: Receive hepatitis A and B vaccines for added protection.
  4. Lifestyle Changes: Focus on exercise and a balanced diet.

During Treatment

Monitor for These Symptoms

Alert your doctor if you experience:

  • Extreme dizziness or fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest discomfort
  • Vision changes
  • Swelling in legs, feet, or ankles
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever lasting over 48 hours
  • Blood in stool

Staying Healthy

  • Maintain a balanced diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Avoid excessive alcohol
  • Consult your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements
  • For those with cirrhosis, have liver check-ups every 3-6 months

Remember: Treating hepatitis C is like running a short race. It might seem challenging at first, but with the right support and determination, you can cross the finish line to better health in just a few months.

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