How dangerous is hepatitis C. Symptoms and signs of hepatitis C (C)

Hepatitis C is a viral infection of liver cells, leading to their destruction. The process lasts for many years and is irreversible. The outcome is the death of all hepatocytes and their replacement with connective tissue. As a result, the liver can no longer perform its functions, the person dies from liver failure.

The disease is transmitted sexually and through the blood. The infectious dose is very small, so today hepatitis C is becoming an epidemic.

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Features of the disease

Hepatitis C is a disease of infectious origin. The reason for it is the infection of the body with a virus. Ways of transmission of the pathogen:

• sexual, including anal and oral contact;
• through the blood during medical and non-medical invasive manipulations;
• from mother to fetus during pregnancy and childbirth.

The greatest number of infections occurs with intravenous administration of narcotic substances.

When infected, the virus enters the bloodstream and reaches the liver cells. Here it begins to multiply and integrate into human DNA. Hepatocytes are destroyed and release new particles of the virus throughout a person's life. There are no healthy carriers.



Symptoms

Hepatitis C occurs in two forms - acute and chronic. Primary infection leads to the development of acute hepatitis. In most cases, it is asymptomatic, as a result of which it is rarely diagnosed. The acute form becomes chronic, 20% of patients recover completely. Symptoms include the following:

The danger of an acute form of hepatitis C is a lethal outcome in the fulminant (fulminant) course of the disease. It is observed extremely rarely, usually in patients with pre-existing hepatitis.

The course of the chronic form is favorable in 70% of cases. In 30% of patients there is a progressive course with the development of various conditions. Full list possible consequences:

• cirrhosis;
• hepatocellular carcinoma;
• liver failure;
• bleeding from dilated veins of the esophagus.

Some patients develop extrahepatic manifestations. These include lesions of the skin and other internal organs.





Diagnostics

The clinical picture for the diagnosis of hepatitis C is of little importance, since the disease in most cases is asymptomatic. Therefore, laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods come to the fore:

Method	Description
Blood chemistry	An increased content of bilirubin (during the icteric period), hepatic transaminases and enzymes is determined
Determination of antibodies in the blood	It is used for screening diagnostics. In the first time after infection, antibodies may not be detected - a false negative result
PCR diagnostics	The most accurate method. There are two diagnostic options. The first - qualitative - only confirms the presence or absence of the virus in the blood. The second - quantitative - determines the number of viral particles, which determines how dangerous a person is to others. Also, using PCR, it is possible to establish the genotype of the virus, which determines the duration of treatment.
Liver Fibroscan	Allows you to determine the degree of destruction of hepatocytes and their replacement with connective tissue
ultrasound	Used to detect signs of liver cirrhosis

After confirming the diagnosis, the question of the appropriateness of treatment is decided. It is shown at high activity of the process.



Treatment

If hepatitis was detected at an acute stage, patients are prescribed therapy with interferon preparations. It is aimed at preventing the transition of hepatitis into a chronic form. The effectiveness of therapy is determined by the achievement of a stable virological response - the absence of viral RNA in the blood. Simultaneously, symptomatic treatment is carried out.

The goal of chronic hepatitis treatment is also to achieve a sustained virologic response. For etiotropic purposes, interferon preparations and the antiviral agent Ribavirin are used. The combination of these drugs allows you to suppress the reproduction of the virus.

Dosages of drugs are selected only by a doctor. The duration of the course of treatment depends on the genotype of the virus and ranges from 24 to 48 weeks. Viral load is periodically monitored, the results obtained indicate the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of treatment.

Symptomatic treatment is also prescribed, aimed at restoring liver cells. For this purpose, hepatoprotectors are used for a long course.

Forecast

With a progressive course of the disease, irreversible changes in the liver develop for 15-20 years. Accompanying infections - hepatitis B, HIV infection accelerate the development of cirrhosis and cancer. The risk of developing these diseases is higher with alcohol abuse.

In women, cirrhosis appears less frequently, but much faster than in men. Such changes are easily subject to malignancy and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of cancer), the death of which occurs within a few months.

Death in hepatitis C is possible already at the stage of irreversible changes - from liver failure, bleeding, oncological intoxication.



Conclusion

Hepatitis C is a disease with a latent course, leading to the complete destruction of liver cells. In most cases, the pathological process lasts for decades.

These changes are irreversible, so it is important to start treatment as early as possible, while it is possible to save at least part of the organ. Hepatitis C is dangerous by the development of cirrhosis and a malignant tumor, the outcome of which is death.

Hepatitis C is a viral liver disease that is transmitted primarily through the blood. Its main danger lies in a long asymptomatic period during which the patient is already a source of infection. The disease is considered curable, since the competent use of specific antiviral therapy allows you to get rid of the pathogen within 1-2 years. However, it is worth understanding how hepatitis C is dangerous for the patient and for others, how to properly treat it and how to avoid infecting loved ones.

Characteristics of the virus and the development of the disease

The causative agent of hepatitis C is an RNA virus that persists in the blood and infects liver cells. Its reproduction in the body is accompanied by inflammation of hepatocytes and their gradual death. After the pathogen enters the bloodstream, a long incubation period follows - from 2 weeks to 2 months or more. After that, the first clinical signs begin to appear, which you should definitely pay attention to:

• chronic fatigue, decreased efficiency and concentration, sleep and wakefulness disturbances;
• a feeling of heaviness in the right hypochondrium, acute or dull pain, which intensifies after physical exertion or eating heavy food;
• nausea and vomiting, stool disorders;
• in severe cases - staining of the skin and mucous membranes in a yellow tint, lightening of feces and darkening of urine.

REFERENCE. The informal name for hepatitis C is the “gentle killer.” He received it for a long asymptomatic course, during which liver tissues are destroyed slowly and imperceptibly. The first symptoms appear already at the stage when the processes have affected a significant part of the organ.

To understand why hepatitis C is dangerous for others and how to protect yourself when dealing with an infected person, you need to know what ways the virus is transmitted. The causative agent of this disease is in the blood, so the only way to become infected is direct contact with the infected fluid. This can happen in the following situations:

• during a blood transfusion or during a hemodialysis procedure;
• when sharing injection syringes without prior sterilization - the most common way of infection among drug addicts;
• when visiting manicure and tattoo parlors, there is practically no risk if you take a responsible approach to choosing an institution;
• during sexual intercourse, the virus is rarely transmitted, only in the presence of damage to the mucous membranes of the genital organs.

When diagnosing hepatitis C, several genotypes of the virus are isolated. The most dangerous of them is type 1b. It is difficult to treat with specific antiviral drugs, progresses rapidly and often leads to the development of complications.

Why is hepatitis C dangerous for a patient?

It is worth understanding how dangerous hepatitis C is for an infected person. With timely treatment, it is not fatal. Modern antiviral drugs quickly destroy the infection, support the immune system and relieve all symptoms of liver damage. In addition, they do not cause side effects, unlike the first representatives of this group of drugs. However, if left untreated, hepatitis C can progress gradually. The virus constantly mutates, the hepatic parenchyma is destroyed, and the patient is diagnosed with dangerous pathologies. These include various liver dystrophies, cirrhosis, and in some cases cancer.

IMPORTANT! According to statistics, many patients with hepatitis C go away without treatment. In addition, a person can live a lifetime as a carrier of the virus, but without feeling the clinical manifestations of the disease.

Fatty degeneration of the liver

The consequences of hepatitis C without timely treatment are various dystrophies. These include hepatosis and steatosis. At the cellular level, they are manifested by damage to inflamed hepatocytes and the accumulation of adipose tissue in the parenchyma of the organ. This significantly reduces its functionality, as a result of which the metabolism and digestive processes are disturbed. Fatty degeneration is a reversible phenomenon that can be eliminated with medication. However, in advanced cases, the disease progresses and turns into more dangerous pathologies.

The only way the hepatitis C virus is transmitted is when the infected blood of an infected person enters the blood vessels of a healthy person.

cirrhosis

With chronic inflammation, the liver cells gradually die off, and instead of them a dense scar is formed from the connective tissue. The danger of this condition is that hepatocytes cannot regenerate. Severe liver failure gradually progresses, which leads to the development of complications:

• ascites - the accumulation of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity, which causes peritonitis and sepsis;
• hepatic encephalopathy - brain intoxication, followed by coma and death;
• internal bleeding - in the absence of emergency medical care, they are life-threatening.

Cirrhosis of the liver is a fatal disease. The life span of patients does not exceed several years, and treatment is ineffective. All therapeutic methods are aimed at maintaining life, prolonging it and improving its quality. At the initial stages, liver transplantation is possible, but only if the virus is completely eliminated and the patient's condition is stabilized.

Liver cancer

Malignant tumors can have a different nature and are not necessarily associated with viral hepatitis. However, chronic inflammation and destruction of the liver tissue gives rise to tumor growth. Oncological processes are life-threatening, and its duration is determined by the tendency of the neoplasm to malignancy, its localization and the presence of metastases.

Risk of disease to others and precautions

In theory, hepatitis C can be transmitted even when a small amount of infected blood comes into contact with damaged skin or mucous membranes. Such situations can occur in the family or at home, so the risk of infection is present. However, in practice it is often found that the disease persists for many years only in one of the family members. Everyone who has been in contact with the patient's blood or lived with him in the same territory must undergo an examination, but the results in most cases are negative.

Is the disease transmitted in everyday life?

Hepatitis C is a disease that is not transmitted in everyday life. An infected person is not terrible for family members, subject to simple safety rules. You can safely share towels, bedding, and other items. It is important to bring your own shaving supplies and take precautions when using knives. In case of accidental skin cuts, objects should be disinfected. At home, a simple boil is sufficient.

Hepatitis C during pregnancy

When planning a pregnancy, it is advisable to take all blood tests and, if a virus is detected, undergo a course of treatment. The danger of hepatitis is that specific antiviral drugs are contraindicated for women during this period. However, early diagnosis can lead to a healthy baby. There are several things women with hepatitis C should be aware of:

• the virus is not transmitted through the placenta, so during pregnancy the possibility of infection of the fetus is excluded;
• there is about a 6% chance of transmission of the pathogen during childbirth, so the process takes place with tightened security measures;
• during pregnancy, the load on the liver increases, which can cause the rapid development of complications;
• breastfeeding may be on the list of contraindications - the virus can penetrate while damaging the skin and mucous membranes of the mother and child.

Hepatitis C is especially dangerous if the infection occurs in the early stages of pregnancy. For this reason, it is necessary to donate blood for tests several times. Such a procedure will allow timely detection of the disease and take all measures to prevent complications.

The disease is not transmitted in everyday life, but when one of the family members is diagnosed, the rest must also undergo an examination.

Restrictions for the infected

Certain precautions must be observed. This will allow the infected person to remain safe for others even in emergency situations. Their main purpose is to prevent contact with blood and transmission of the virus. There is a set of rules that the patient should follow from the moment of diagnosis until confirmation of complete recovery:

• hepatitis C is a complete contraindication to donating blood and its fractions;
• all skin lesions should be sealed with adhesive tape;
• in case of accidental contact of blood with damaged skin or mucous membranes of a healthy person, it is urgent to treat the cut site with disinfectant solutions;
• should notify the employer of their diagnosis, even if the risk of transmission of the virus is minimal;
• you must have your own set of nail scissors and shaving accessories;
• You should avoid visiting nail salons and getting tattoos.

REFERENCE. Patients with hepatitis C may be denied employment if there is a risk of exposure of others to his blood. Thus, infected people often experience difficulties in working in the armed forces, in the field of health care, catering and in children's institutions. In practice, however, the likelihood of transmission of the virus is negligible.

Hepatitis C is a disease that can be treated. Modern medicine allows you to completely get rid of the virus without the risk of complications and side effects. A new generation of antiviral drugs acts both on the immune system, forcing it to produce protective cells, and directly on the pathogen. The duration of therapy can reach several years, and in the presence of aggravating factors (HIV infection, liver cirrhosis), its effectiveness is determined individually. In addition to taking antiviral medications, the treatment complex will include several more stages:

• hepatoprotectors - drugs that protect liver cells and stimulate regeneration processes;
• a sparing diet with a complete rejection of fatty, fried foods, sweets and semi-finished products;
• giving up bad habits, especially drinking alcohol.

Hepatitis C is an infectious disease that poses a greater danger to the patient himself than to others. The likelihood of infection in the home is minimal, and the precautions are simple to follow. According to statistics, many people learn about their diagnosis by chance during a routine examination. The disease is often asymptomatic or in the form of carriage, in rare cases it progresses and flows into complicated forms.

To understand why hepatitis C is dangerous, you need to know the properties of the virus and the nature of its interaction with the human body. A feature of acute viral hepatitis C is that it is often asymptomatic and becomes chronic in 70–80% of cases. The first signs of the disease can appear only at the stage of complications - when the harm caused by the virus to the liver and the whole body becomes noticeable.

Viral hepatitis C can also proceed aggressively, leading the patient to liver failure in a short time. In addition, with it there are also extrahepatic manifestations caused by direct viral effects on organs, as well as the addition of immune processes.

Viral hepatitis C often passes from an acute form to a chronic form, which is associated with the variability of the virus. There are 11 known genotypes of this virus, about 40 subtypes. They differ in prevalence, degree of aggressiveness of the course, sensitivity to drugs. This, by the way, makes it difficult to select antiviral therapy. Genotypes and subtypes were formed during the evolution of the virus, so they have a fairly stable antigenic structure.

Due to the high rate of reproduction of the virus and the ease of mutations in its genome, a huge number of quasitypes can appear within each subtype, even in the body of one person. This leads to the fact that during the time necessary for the formation of a full-fledged immune response by the body, the virus has time to rebuild its antigenic structure and escape from the blow. The production of antibodies is delayed, the virus continues to multiply, and this can be repeated repeatedly.

The immune response in acute viral hepatitis C is almost never as strong as in most other acute infections. Symptoms of the disease are erased, so they may go unnoticed. The patient does not fall into the field of view of doctors and does not receive treatment, and then the disease becomes chronic.

Another unpleasant consequence of the variability of the genotype is that a cure for viral hepatitis C does not guarantee subsequent immunity to infection - it can be re-infected. Moreover, being a carrier of a virus of one genotype, you can become infected with a virus of another.

With viral hepatitis C, it is possible to be re-infected with another type of virus, so situations in which infection is potentially possible should be avoided.

This is especially important for families where both spouses are sick with viral hepatitis C. Mistakenly believing that they have the same disease, partners may stop following preventive measures. As a result, there is a risk of re-infection.

Danger to others

In a person infected with the hepatitis C virus, the virus is detected in the blood and in natural secretions throughout the entire period of the disease. The likelihood of transmission depends on the number of pathogens in the patient's body (how high the viral load) and how the interaction between the sick and healthy person occurs.

The mechanism and ways of transmission of the virus are such that, subject to hygiene standards (use of a separate razor, toothbrush, timely correct treatment of microtraumas), the patient is not dangerous to others. The likelihood of infection in everyday life is minimal.

With household contacts, if hygiene standards are observed, the hepatitis C virus is not transmitted. The patient does not need restrictive measures.

The risk of infection is high when the patient's blood comes into direct contact with the internal environments of a healthy person. This can happen during surgery, injections, transplants, trimmings, piercings, tattoos, and other similar situations.

Standard asepsis and antiseptic measures rule out contamination if properly followed. But the virus is very persistent in environment, the slightest deviation from the rules for processing tools significantly increases the risk. This, combined with the asymptomatic course (when a person does not know that he is sick), has led to such a large spread of infection.

The virus is also contained in the secretions of the patient, which can cause infection if they enter the blood of a healthy person. Infection threatens the child during breastfeeding, if he has microtrauma in his mouth, and the mother is sick, especially if she has cracked nipples. A child can also get the virus in utero and during childbirth. Infection during sex is possible (with microtrauma of the mucosa in a healthy person).

danger to the patient

The disease, proceeding asymptomatically, gradually affects more and more liver cells. Once in the hepatocyte, the virus rebuilds it in such a way that the cell cannot perform its functions, but becomes a kind of "incubator". Virus particles are produced using the structures of the cell and go outside, destroying it.

The immune system of the body, trying to stop the reproduction of the virus, attacks the infected hepatocytes. A protective reaction is launched, designed to delimit areas of damage. A long-term infectious and inflammatory process leads to severe liver damage.

To the most dangerous consequences hepatitis C include the following pathologies:

1. cirrhosis of the liver. With the death of hepatocytes, normal liver tissue is replaced by connective tissue, which leads to a decrease in the size of the liver, its compaction. The body ceases to perform its functions to the full extent. Liver failure develops, which progresses over time. When the symptoms of liver failure bring the patient to the doctor, he may for the first time learn that he has viral hepatitis C, already, alas, in the stage of cirrhosis;
2. the development of primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) - due to the fact that the virus cannot reproduce on its own. For its own reproduction, it uses the cell's genome, damaging it. Sooner or later, a hepatocyte appears capable of uncontrolled reproduction. If the immune system does not neutralize this cell, it becomes the ancestor of a population of cancer cells.

What affects the rapid progression of the disease

Sometimes acute hepatitis proceeds quickly, even at lightning speed, in a short period leading the patient to terminal liver failure and death. This is not typical for viral hepatitis C, but such cases do occur. This may be due to previous liver damage and other etiological factors.

The chronic form of viral hepatitis C can also become more aggressive if the effect of the virus is combined with the influence of another harmful factor, such as medication, alcohol, an autoimmune process, or infection with a virus of some other hepatitis.

Patients with chronic viral hepatitis C should be vaccinated against viral hepatitis A and B to build immunity against these diseases. This will protect patients from infection and a worse prognosis.

With all the gloom of the picture, there is a fact that inspires hope - chronic viral hepatitis C can be cured completely with the right selection of antiviral drugs, their adequate doses and the appropriate duration of treatment.

Extrahepatic consequences

The virus can multiply not only in hepatocytes, but also in other cells of the body. This fact has been proven, although for a long time it was in doubt, since the presence of the virus in certain tissues can be explained by the introduction of blood flow. This allows us to consider viral hepatitis C as systemic. infectious disease which is very important in solving transplantation issues. Liver transplantation alleviates the condition of patients with cirrhosis and cancer, but does not stop the infectious process.

Now the participation of the virus in the development of some diseases (one of the forms of glomerulonephritis, cryoglobulinemia) has been proven, in the development of others its participation is likely (autoimmune thyroiditis, porphyria, Sjögren's syndrome, etc.). Some extrahepatic manifestations may be caused by overstimulation immune system.

Viral hepatitis C rarely affects the well-being of patients in the first time after infection, but it is terrible for its consequences - severe damage to the liver and other organs. However, this diagnosis is not a sentence, if it is established in the initial stages and receive full treatment.

Hepatitis C is a viral liver disease. It is also called the "gentle killer". This disease creeps up on the sly, proceeds without clear signs and leads to severe consequences: cancer or cirrhosis of the liver.

The virus was discovered in 1989, before that the disease was called "non-A, non-B hepatitis". Both drug addicts who use the same needle and absolutely safe people can become infected with hepatitis C. After all, you can “catch” the virus in the dentist’s office or in a nail salon.

Once infected, hepatitis is very secretive. Viruses multiply in the liver, gradually destroying its cells. At the same time, in most cases, a person does not feel any signs of the disease. And since there are no complaints and visits to the doctor, there is no treatment. As a result, in 75% of cases, the disease becomes chronic, and there are serious consequences. Often, a person feels the first signs of the disease only when cirrhosis of the liver has developed, which cannot be cured.

How common is hepatitis C? There are more than 150 million chronic patients on the planet, in Russia their number is 5 million. Every year, the disease is detected in 3-4 million people. And the death rate from the consequences of hepatitis C is 350 thousand per year. Agree, impressive numbers.

The disease is unevenly distributed. In some countries with low sanitation culture, 5% of the total population is infected. Men and women are equally susceptible to this disease, but in women, treatment is more successful. In children, hepatitis responds better to therapy, only in 20% of cases it becomes chronic. While in adults, 20% of patients are successfully cured, 20% become carriers of the virus, and 60% have chronic liver disease.

Can hepatitis C be completely cured?

How is hepatitis C transmitted?

The disease is transmitted through the blood. The source of infection is a person. It can be a patient with an acute or chronic form of hepatitis C, as well as a carrier - someone who has a virus in the blood, but does not get sick himself.

There are many situations in which you can become infected with the hepatitis C virus.

1. Blood transfusion and organ transplantation. Approximately 1-2% of donors have the virus and are unaware of it. People who are forced to do repeated blood transfusions are especially at risk. In the past, this route of transmission of the disease was the main one. But now blood and donor organs are checked more carefully.
2. When sharing the same needle with drug addicts. In this way, up to 40% of patients become infected. The small fragments of blood that remain on the needle are enough to contract many serious diseases. Including AIDS and hepatitis C viruses.
3. When using non-sterile instruments. Many medical and cosmetic procedures may be accompanied by skin lesions. If the instruments have not been properly disinfected, they retain infected blood particles with the virus. Such a danger lurks in the dentist's office, at acupuncture sessions, as well as those people who do piercings, tattoos or just manicures.
4. During childbirth- "vertical" transmission path. A mother can pass the virus to her baby during childbirth. Especially if at this moment she has an acute form of hepatitis or she suffered the disease in the last months of pregnancy. Milk does not contain the virus, so breastfeeding completely safe.
5. During sexual contact. During sex without a condom, you can take the virus from a sexual partner. However, the risk of such infection with hepatitis C is not too high.
6. When providing medical care. Health workers who give injections, tend to wounds, or work with blood and blood products are also at risk of becoming infected. Especially if infected blood gets on damaged areas of the skin.

Hepatitis C is not transmitted through shared utensils, food and water, towels, washcloths, kisses and hugs. When talking, sneezing and coughing, the virus is also not released.

What is hepatitis C virus?

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a small virus round shape, it belongs to the Flaviviridae family. Its main part is a single strand of ribonucleic acid (RNA). She is responsible for the transfer of genetic information to descendant viruses. The chain is covered with a shell of protein molecules - the capsid. Outer protective layer capsules are made up of fat. On their surface there are elevations similar to volcanoes - these are protein molecules that serve to penetrate into human cells.

The virus has an interesting feature. He is constantly changing. To date, there are 11 variants of it - genotypes. But after being infected by one of them, the virus continues to mutate. As a result, up to 40 varieties of one genotype can be identified in a patient.

It is this property of the virus that allows it to remain in the body for so long. While the human immune system learns to produce antibodies to fight one variety, the virus has already managed to change. Then the immune system has to start producing "defenders" again. From such a load, the human immune system is gradually depleted.

What happens in the body when a virus gets there?

Badly affects the human condition and intoxication, which occurs due to the activity of the virus. The condition also worsens because the liver, which should cleanse the blood of toxins, does not perform its functions.

Will the vaccine help prevent hepatitis C?

To date, there are vaccinations against hepatitis A and B. There is no vaccine that would prevent hepatitis C. This is due to the fact that the virus has a huge number of varieties and it is very difficult to create a drug that would contain an element common to all genotypes. But development is ongoing. Perhaps in the future such a tool will appear.

In the meantime, avoidance of drugs and the use of condoms during sexual intercourse can be considered preventive measures. Medical workers should wear rubber gloves to protect their hands. Sanitation stations constantly monitor how instruments that come into contact with blood are processed. But only you can decide where to treat your teeth, get manicures and piercings.

What can be the result of a blood test for hepatitis C?

If there is a suspicion that a person could become infected with hepatitis, then a number of tests are prescribed:

• Coagulogram (blood clotting test)
• Test for the determination of hepatitis C virus RNA by PCR (for HCV-RN) qualitative, quantitative, genotyping
• Antibody test to the hepatitis C virus(anti-HCV, ELISA, enzyme immunoassay)
• Test for the presence of class M antibodies to hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV IgM)
• Test for the presence of class G antibodies to hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV IgG)

Let's take a closer look at each type of study:

1. General blood analysis . A decrease in the level of platelets is found in the blood. At the same time, the number of leukocytes increases. This is a sign of an inflammatory process in the liver.


2. Blood chemistry. During hepatitis C, enzymes and other substances appear in the blood that are not in the analyzes of a healthy person.
   • Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found in hepatocytes. If it is found in the blood, then this indicates liver damage. This test is considered very sensitive in order to detect acute hepatitis in the early stages.
   
   
   • Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) It is also an enzyme that is found in the tissues of the liver. If both enzymes (AST and ALT) are found in the blood, then this may indicate that the death of liver cells has begun - necrosis. In the event that the amount of AST is much higher than ALT, it is possible that connective tissue has begun to grow in the liver (liver fibrosis). Or it indicates damage to the organ by toxins - medicines or alcohol.
   
   
   • Bilirubin- one of the components of bile. If it is found in the blood, then this indicates a violation in the functioning of liver cells, their destruction by viruses.
   
   
   • Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is an enzyme found in the liver tissue. Enhanced level may indicate cirrhosis of the liver.
   
   
   • Alkaline phosphatase (AP) is an enzyme found in the bile ducts of the liver. If it is present in the blood, then hepatitis has disrupted the outflow of bile.
   
   
   • Protein fractions- proteins that appear in the blood with liver damage. There are a lot of proteins, but if the liver suffers, then the amount of 5 of them increases: albumins, alpha1 globulins, alpha2 globulins, beta globulins and gamma globulins.


3. Coagulogram is a set of tests for the study of blood clotting. With hepatitis, blood clotting decreases, clotting time increases. This is due to the fact that the level of the prothrombin protein, which is synthesized in the liver and is responsible for stopping blood during bleeding, decreases.


4. Test for the determination of hepatitis C virus RNA by PCR qualitative, quantitative, genotyping (PCR for HCV-RNA) is a blood test that determines the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and its component - the RNA chain. The study is carried out by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It allows you to determine the amount of virus in the blood and its genotype. This information will help to choose the right treatment and predict how the disease will proceed.

   If the analysis is positive, this indicates that the body is infected with the hepatitis C virus and the pathogen is actively multiplying. Knowing the amount of the virus, you can determine how contagious a person is and whether the disease is easily treatable. The lower the amount of virus in the blood, the better the prognosis.



5. Hepatitis virus antibody test FROM (anti-HCV, ELISA, enzyme immunoassay) is an analysis that aims to detect antibodies that are produced by the immune system to fight the hepatitis C virus. The test for total antibodies includes the determination of immunoglobulins, regardless of their type.

   A positive test result indicates that the body is infected with a virus, and the immune system is actively fighting it. Antibodies are produced in acute and chronic forms of the disease. They are also present for 5-9 years in the blood of a person who has been ill and recovered on his own. Therefore, a more accurate study is needed to determine what processes occur during illness.



6. Hepatitis C class M antibody test(anti-HCV IgM) - immunoglobulins M appear in the blood 4 weeks after infection. They remain in large numbers while the disease rages in the body. After 6 months, when the condition improves, they become smaller. But they can reappear if the disease becomes chronic and exacerbation begins.

   A positive analysis for M antibodies indicates that the patient has an acute form of hepatitis C or an exacerbation of the chronic form of this disease. If the IgM test is negative and there is no ALT in the blood, but there are traces of RNA or IgG, then the person is considered a carrier of the virus.



7. Test for the presence of class G antibodies to the hepatitis C virus(anti-HCV IgG) is the detection of immunoglobulins G, which neutralize the "nuclear" elements of viruses. This analysis will not show a recent case of the disease. After all, IgG appear only 2.5-3 months after infection. Their number decreases after six months, if the treatment was successful. In patients with the chronic form, immunoglobulins G remain in the blood until the end of life.

   A positive test result indicates that the acute phase is over. Either the healing process began or the disease went underground and a chronic form appeared, without exacerbations.

   If the result of blood tests for hepatitis is negative, it means that there are no viruses and antibodies to them in your body. But in some cases, the doctor may advise you to take a second test in a few weeks. The fact is that the signs of hepatitis C do not appear immediately.

In order for the analysis result to be as accurate as possible, it is necessary to follow simple rules. Blood for research is taken from the cubital vein. It is necessary to take tests in the morning, before meals. On the eve you can not drink alcohol, actively engage in sports. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications. They can affect test results.

Additional Research

Your doctor will usually order an ultrasound of the liver (ultrasound). It helps to determine the enlargement of the liver and areas affected by the virus. But the most accurate results are obtained by biopsy. This is taking a sample of cells directly from the liver with a special needle. The procedure is fast. In order for the patient not to feel discomfort, he is given an injection with an anesthetic drug.

After conducting all the studies, the doctor determines the level of development of the disease and the degree of liver damage, and also selects the most effective and safe treatment.

What are the genotypes of the virus?

The hepatitis C virus is highly variable. He mutated, adapted to the conditions for several thousand years and almost reached perfection. That is why the disease resists immune attacks well and often becomes chronic. To date, the World Health Organization has recognized the existence of 11 genotypes of the hepatitis C virus.

The genotypes of a virus are its variants, which differ from each other in the structure of the RNA chain. They are numbered from 1 to 11. Each genotype differs from its counterparts by about a third. But within each such group there are several options. The differences between them are not so great - these are subtypes. For their designation, numbers and letters (1a or 1c) are used.

Why determine the genotype of the virus? The fact is that different genotypes cause different forms illness. Some subtypes may disappear on their own without treatment. Others, on the contrary, do not respond well to therapy. If you determine the type of virus, then you can choose the right dose of the drug and the duration of the course of treatment. For example, genotypes 1 and 4 are more resistant to interferon treatment.

Genotypes have another interesting feature - they affect people in different regions:

1a - in America and Australia;
1b - throughout Europe and Asia;
2a - on the islands of Japan and in China;
2b - in the USA and Northern Europe;
2c - in Western and Southern Europe;
3a - in Australia, Europe and South Asia;
4a - in Egypt;
4c - in Central Africa;
5a - in South Africa;
6a - in Hong Kong, Macau and Vietnam;
7a and 7b - in Thailand
8a, 8b and 9a - in Vietnam
10a and 11a - in Indonesia.

In Russia, genotypes 1, 2, and 3 are more common than others. Genotype 1 is the most common in the world and is less susceptible to treatment with modern drugs than others. This is especially true of subtype 1c, the prognosis of the course of the disease in which is worse compared to other varieties. Genotypes 1 and 4 are treated for an average of 48-72 weeks. For people with genotype 1, large doses of drugs are required and they depend on body weight.

While subtypes 2, 3, 5 and 6 give a small amount of virus in the blood and have a more favorable prognosis. They can be cured in 12-24 weeks. The disease quickly recedes when using Interferon and Ribavirin preparations. Genotype 3 causes a serious complication - the deposition of fat in the liver (steatosis). This phenomenon greatly worsens the patient's condition.

There is evidence that a person can simultaneously become infected with several genotypes, but one of them will always be superior to the others.

What antibodies indicate infectious hepatitis C?

As soon as foreign particles enter the body - viruses, bacteria, the immune system begins to produce special proteins to fight them. These protein formations are called immunoglobulins. For each variety of microorganisms, special immunoglobulins are formed.

In hepatitis C, immune cells produce 2 types of "defenders", which are indicated in the analyzes with a label anti-HCV, which means against the hepatitis C virus.

Class M antibodies(immunoglobulins M or anti-HCV IgM). They appear a month after infection and quickly increase their numbers to a maximum. This occurs in the acute stage of the disease or during an exacerbation of chronic hepatitis C. This reaction of the body indicates that the immune system is actively destroying viruses. When the disease subsides, the amount of anti-HCV IgM gradually decreases.

Class G antibodies(immunoglobulins G or anti-HCV IgG). They are produced against the proteins of the virus and appear approximately 3-6 months after the pathogen has settled in the body. If only these antibodies are present in the blood test, then the infection occurred a long time ago, and the active stage is left behind. If the level of anti-HCV IgG is low and gradually decreases with repeated analysis, this may indicate recovery. In patients with the chronic form, immunoglobulins G remain in the blood permanently.

Also in laboratories, antibodies to NS3, NS4 and NS5 proteins are determined. These viral proteins are also called non-structural proteins.

Antibodies that are produced against the NS3 protein(Anti-NS3). They appear at the very beginning of the disease. This analysis allows to identify the disease on early stages. It is believed that the higher the Anti-NS3 value, the more virus in the blood. And the higher the likelihood that hepatitis C will go into the chronic stage.

Antibodies that are produced against the NS4 protein(Anti-NS4). Appear on later dates. Allows you to find out how long ago the infection occurred. It is believed that the higher their number, the more affected the liver.

Antibodies that are produced against the NS5 protein(Anti-NS5). These antibodies are present in the blood when the RNA of the virus is present there. In the acute period, they may indicate that there is a high probability of chronic hepatitis C.

How to treat hepatitis C with medicines?

Can hepatitis C be completely cured?

Yes, since 2015 Hepatitis C has been officially recognized as a completely curable disease. What does this mean? Modern drugs do not just stop the reproduction of the virus - they completely kill the virus in the body and return the liver to a healthy state.

Currently, there are very effective methods of treating hepatitis C. With the use of modern drugs, cure occurs in 95-98% of cases. Given the good tolerability of the currently used drugs, hepatitis C can be classified as a completely curable disease.

Since 2015, such drugs as Sofosbuvir + Velpatasvir have been widely used in the treatment of hepatitis C. The complex use of this combination of drugs for a duration of 12 weeks leads to almost 100% cure for the disease.

Sofosbuvir

This is a highly effective antiviral drug related to nucleotide analogues. The mechanism of the therapeutic action of this drug is to block the enzyme involved in copying the genetic material of the virus. As a result, the virus cannot multiply and spread throughout the body.

Velpatasvir

It is a highly effective antiviral drug that affects the protein (protein coded as: NS5A) involved in the assembly of the components of the virus. Thus, this drug prevents the reproduction and spread of the virus in the body.

Combinations of drugs Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir used according to the treatment regimen have a double effect on different type hepatitis C virus, which is the optimal treatment for all 6 hepatitis C genotypes.

The duration of treatment with a combination of drugs Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir is 12 weeks. The result is 98% cure of hepatitis C.

Previous regimens for the treatment of hepatitis C involved the use of Interferon preparations in combination with Ribavirin. Below are the treatment regimens and mechanisms of therapeutic action

Interferon

This is a protein structure that is usually produced by human cells to fight viruses. To prepare the drug, the corresponding section of human DNA is implanted into E. coli using genetic engineering methods. The protein molecules are then isolated and purified. Thanks to this technology, interferon is produced on an industrial scale.

Interferon alfa 2a or 2b injection is suitable for the treatment of hepatitis C. Other forms, such as candles, do not help.

The mechanism of action of interferon:

• Protects healthy cells from virus entry
• strengthens the cell wall so that pathogens cannot penetrate inside
• prevents the reproduction of the virus
• slows down the production of virus particles
• activates the genes in the cell that fight viruses
• stimulates the immune system to fight the virus

Additional administration of interferon helps the body cope with the infection. In addition, it prevents the development of cirrhosis and liver cancer.

1. Simple interferons - are from the cheapest and therefore commonly available drugs :
   • Roferon-A(interferon alpha-2a) Increases the resistance of cells to the virus. Strengthens the immune system so that it actively destroys the pathogen. Assign 3-4.5 million IU (international units) 3 times a week. The duration of treatment is from 6 months to a year.
   
   
   • Intron-A(interferon alfa-2b). It binds to receptors on the surface of the cell and changes its work. As a result, the virus can no longer reproduce in the cell. Also, the drug increases the activity of phagocytes - immune cells that absorb viruses. The first 6 months, the dose is 3 million IU 3 times a week. The duration of treatment can last up to a year.
2. Peligated interferon - this is the same interferon, but it remains in the body for a longer period. This is due to the addition of polyethylene glycol, which enhances the action of interferon. Types of drugs:
   • Pegasis(peginterferon alfa-2a). Stops the division of the RNA virus and its reproduction. The immune defense is strengthened. Liver cells multiply properly without losing their functions. Stimulates those genes in hepatocytes that can resist the attack of the hepatitis C virus. Dosage: 180 mcg once a week subcutaneously in the abdomen or thigh. The duration of treatment is 48 weeks.
   
   
   • Pegintron(peginterferon alfa-2b) Activates enzymes that are produced inside cells to fight viruses. The dose of the drug depends on body weight. On average, it is 0.5 ml once a week. The duration of treatment is from 6 months to a year.


3. Consensus Interferon - a drug obtained thanks to the latest bioengineering technologies.
   • Infergen(interferon alfacon-1) It differs in that the sequence of amino acids in interferon is changed. Due to this, the effect of the drug is enhanced. It helps even those people who have not been treated with other medicines. Dose 15 mcg - 1 vial. Enter daily or three times a week under the skin of the abdomen or thigh. The minimum treatment period is 24 weeks.

Ribavirin

This is a synthetic drug that stimulates the immune system and greatly enhances the effect of drugs based on interferon. Used in conjunction with any of the interferons.

Arviron. The drug easily penetrates into the cells affected by the virus, stops the division of the virus and contributes to the death of the pathogen. The dose depends on body weight. Take 2-3 tablets with meals in the morning and evening. The capsules must not be chewed. The duration of treatment is 24-48 weeks.

Rebetol. It enters the liver cells affected by the disease. There, it prevents new viruses from forming a shell around the RNA and thus inhibits their reproduction. The number of capsules depends on body weight. Usually prescribed 2 in the morning and 3 in the evening during a meal. Do not chew capsules. Take in parallel with interferon 24-72 weeks.

Hepatoprotectors

These are drugs that are designed to hold the liver in a difficult period for it. They do not fight the virus, but help the affected cells recover faster. Thanks to these drugs, the general condition improves, weakness, nausea and other manifestations of intoxication decrease.

Phosphogliv. Provides phospholipids to the body. They are designed to "repair" the walls of the affected liver cells. Take 1-2 capsules 3-4 times a day every time with meals. The duration of the course is six months or more.

Heptral. Performs many functions in the body: enhances the production of bile, improves work gastrointestinal tract, accelerates the recovery of liver cells, relieves intoxication and protects the nervous system. To enhance the effect of the first 2-3 weeks, the drug is administered intravenously using droppers. Then tablets are prescribed. Inside take 3-4 weeks, 1 tablet 2 times a day. The medicine is recommended to be taken on an empty stomach half an hour before meals. Better in the morning. The minimum treatment period is 3 months.

Ursosan. The most effective drug of all hepatoprotectors. Based on ursodeoxycholic acid. It protects cells from destruction, strengthens the immune system, reduces the amount of toxins, prevents fat from being deposited in hepatocytes, and delays the development of connective tissue in the liver. Take 1 capsule 2-3 times a day with meals. The capsules must not be chewed. The dose may vary depending on body weight. The duration of treatment is from 6 months to several years.

Drugs to reduce the side effects of treatment.

Interferon antivirals are not always well tolerated. Young people quickly adapt to such therapy, but if the body is weakened, then it needs help.

Derinat. Immunomodulator - normalizes the functioning of the immune system, increases the number of protective cells: leukocytes, lymphocytes, phagocytes, granulocytes. Assign in injections intramuscularly. Daily or 2-3 times a week. Course from 2 weeks.

Revolade. Designed to normalize blood functions. Increase its coagulability and prevent bleeding. Take 1 tablet per day for 1-2 weeks.

Neupogen. Normalizes the composition of the blood (the number of neutrophils), allows you to reduce the temperature. It is administered subcutaneously or intravenously in droppers. The doctor prescribes according to the results of blood tests.

Hepatitis C can be cured, but for this you need to contact a specialist who has experience working with this disease. A person will have to be patient, strictly follow the doctor's recommendations and follow a diet.

The modern standard of living leads to the appearance of liver diseases. Hepatitis C is rightfully recognized as the most dangerous of them. People call it an affectionate killer. The fact is that in the vast majority of cases it does not show any symptoms. A person can understand that he fell ill only when hepatitis has passed into a severe chronic form. In such a situation, it is problematic to help the patient, the probability of death is high. Therefore, everyone needs to remember the features of this insidious disease.

Features of the pathogen

The development of hepatitis C is associated with a viral infection entering the human body. The problem is considered to be one of the most common today. This is because carriers are often unaware they have the virus and inadvertently spread it to healthy people.

Initially, specialists only knew what hepatitis types A and B were. They suggested that there may be other varieties of such an infection. A series of clinical studies and laboratory tests began. Exactly about the existence of such an infection became known only in 1989. Michael Heaton opened it in one of the largest laboratories in America.

A distinctive feature of the hepatitis C virus was its ability to mutate. Because of this, more than 40 modifications can be detected in the body at the same time. This greatly complicates therapy. The human immune system is not able to cope with so many different pathogens at the same time.

For the development of the disease, a minimum amount of viruses enters the human blood. Rapidly spreading throughout the circulatory system, they reach the liver and invade its cells. The causative agent actively multiplies. The danger is not only the virus itself, but also the immune response of the body to its vital activity. In the human body, the process of producing lymphocyte cells is launched, which are designed to fight foreign cells.

It is rather difficult to study the resistance of the virus to environmental factors. It does not multiply in cellular structures. Modern doctors have managed to find out that such an infection is more resistant than HIV. For her death, heating over 50 degrees or direct ultraviolet rays is required. The pathogen is able to survive external environment up to four days. All this time, he remains dangerous to humans.

The mechanism of the development of the disease

Once in the human body, the hepatitis C virus goes through several stages:

• The infection spreads throughout the circulatory system and enters the liver.
• The process of destruction of hepatocytes begins.
• The virus enters the phase of active reproduction.
• Protein synthesis takes place.
• RNA is duplicated.
• The virus gradually begins to leave the cells.

Stopping the development of this disease is quite difficult. It is possible to completely cope with the virus only in 50% of cases.

Ways of infection

HCV hepatitis virus can enter the body different ways. It is difficult to fully insure against it. The most likely routes of infection are:

• During blood transfusion. Today, medical professionals are tightening control over the quality of blood used for transfusion. Therefore, this route of infection is rare. However, it is still possible in small towns with poor quality of medical care.
• When injecting with an infected syringe. In this way, the virus spreads mainly among drug addicts. Medical staff in hospitals exclusively use disposable syringes that are sterile.
• Unprotected intercourse with a carrier of the infection.
• During tattooing and various cosmetic procedures. This is possible in small salons that do not pay due attention to the disinfection of all tools.
• When carrying out trimmed manicure. One awkward movement of the master is enough and a microscopic wound forms on the finger. Through it, the virus from poorly processed instruments enters the bloodstream.
• Use of personal hygiene items of an infected person. It is strictly forbidden to use toothbrushes, razors, manicure devices and other things of the carrier of the infection.
• Medical workers often become infected from patients during any procedures that involve contact with blood, such as during hemodialysis.

Viral hepatitis C is also diagnosed in infants born from a sick mother. The infection enters the body of the baby during its passage through the birth canal.

The disease is more severe than others in people suffering from chronic diseases, alcoholism, HIV infection.

Myths about hepatitis C infection

Everyone understands that hepatitis is a deadly disease. Therefore, there are many myths and prejudices around him. To dispel them, here is a list of ways in which it is impossible to catch an infection:

• hugs, touches, shaking hands, kissing with a carrier of the infection;
• using the same dishes or towels;
• sharing food and drink with a sick person.

The hepatitis C virus is not airborne. Infection requires direct contact with the blood of a sick person. Therefore, such patients should not be isolated from society. They can lead a full life.

Who is at risk?

Everyone needs to remember what viral hepatitis is, because there is no one hundred percent insurance against it. Experts identify a group of people who suffer from the problem more often than others. Among them stand out:

• people who are promiscuous and neglect the use of a condom;
• patients diagnosed with HIV infection;
• people of non-traditional sexual orientation;
• drug addicts;
• medical workers;
• people who need frequent blood transfusions;
• children born from a sick mother;

In older people, viral hepatitis C quickly becomes chronic than in young people. At the same time, an unfavorable outcome of the course of the disease is recorded more often.

Disease classification

Viral hepatitis C is classified according to several criteria. If we consider it from the point of view of the duration of development, then we distinguish:

• Spicy. No more than three months have passed since the infection. It proceeds without the manifestation of bright symptoms.
• Protracted. The infection happened more than three months ago.
• Chronic. The disease progresses over six months or more.

Distinguish according to severity the following forms Problems:

• Light.
• Medium.
• Heavy.
• Fulminant.

Depending on the form of hepatitis C, several outcomes are possible. In half of the cases, with proper timely treatment, the disease can be defeated. Otherwise, it flows into the chronic stage. If therapy is not carried out, the likelihood of cirrhosis or hepatic oncology is high.

Features of the acute form

Viral hepatitis C in its acute form has an incubation period. It lasts from 15 to 160 days. In 80% of situations, no symptoms appear. Patients are often unaware that they have become carriers of the infection.

If signs of the disease still appear, then they resemble a general malaise. May appear:

• bouts of nausea and vomiting;
• headache or dizziness;
• deterioration of appetite up to its complete loss;
• increase in body temperature;
• cough;
• runny nose;
• pain in the throat;
• lethargy, feeling of depression, loss of working capacity;
• pain in joints and muscles.

The appearance of such symptoms in viral hepatitis C is called the anicteric period. Jaundice may follow. The first sign of such a problem is a change in the shade of urine. It becomes dark brown. After that, the sclera and skin integuments turn yellow. At the same time, heaviness is felt in the zone of the right hypochondrium. There is a blockage of the bile ducts, which affects the color of the feces.

Chronic

When patients with hepatitis C do not start treatment on time, their disease flows into the chronic stage. It is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Increased fatigue. Over time, the situation gets worse. The person is so weak that it is difficult for him to wake up in the morning. Constantly want to sleep, lost interest in life.
• The sleep-wake cycle is disrupted. In the daytime, the patient wants to sleep, and with the onset of darkness, energy appears.
• Appetite disappears.
• A person is tormented by bouts of nausea, vomiting, bloating.

In chronic hepatitis C in the blood, jaundice is observed in exceptional cases. The last stage in the progression of the disease is cirrhosis of the liver.

Diagnostics

Only an infectious disease specialist can make an accurate diagnosis. This will require a laboratory blood test, as well as an instrumental examination. The following methods are applied:

• Biochemical analysis. During the study, the concentration of bilirubin, AlAT and AsAT is determined.
• polymerase chain reaction. Allows you to detect the presence of the pathogen in the RNA sample.
• Detection of the presence of antibodies in the blood. With hepatitis C, the immune system begins to actively produce substances aimed at combating the pathogen. Their detection in the blood indicates a problem.
• The condition of the liver and nearby organs is examined using ultrasound. This allows you to assess the degree of damage to the organ and the stage of development of the disease.
• You can accurately determine the condition of the liver with a biopsy. Several cells of the organ are taken and their subsequent study is carried out.

If chronic hepatitis C is suspected, a biopsy is considered mandatory. Only this procedure allows you to accurately determine the severity of the disease. It will also help to conduct a study of the genotype of the virus, which is important for developing the right treatment strategy.

If only traces of hepatitis are found in the blood during the test, then hepatitis C was transferred by the patient in the past. The immune system managed to cope with the problem on its own. The reasons why this is possible for some people and not for others have not been established. This is due to the individual characteristics of the organism.

Sometimes the diagnosis of hepatitis is misdiagnosed. Initial test results are false positive. In such a situation, the doctor should prescribe a more in-depth study.

If the diagnosis is in doubt, go to another clinic and undergo a thorough medical examination.

Read also related

How can you get hepatitis B at home?

Treatment Method

Like any infectious disease, hepatitis requires an integrated approach to treatment. Experts recommend the following methods:

• Fighting the pathogen with antiviral drugs.
• Restoration of liver cells and maintenance of its performance with the use of hepatoprotectors.
• Strengthening the body's immune system.
• Diet food.

Treatment of acute and chronic forms will be different. Acute viral hepatitis C will require urgent symptomatic relief and protection of the liver from destruction. Therapy for a chronic disease will be long-term. The focus is on restoring the normal functioning of the body.

Antiviral therapy

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to eliminate the source of infection in order to prevent re-infection. It will be possible to cope with the virus only with the help of specialized medicines. More often for this purpose they use: interferon and ribaverin.

Interferon. In the manufacture of such tools, a particle of human DNA is implanted into the body of E. coli. For this, genetic engineering is used. They help isolate and purify the protein molecules of interferon. Patients with hepatitis C are shown only intravenous administration of the drug. It prevents damage to healthy cells, helps to make their walls thicker, which prevents the penetration of the virus. Taking interferon activates the work of genes that actively fight the disease. The choice of a particular drug is largely determined by how hepatitis proceeds. The following forms are used:

• simple interferons. This group includes Roferon-A and Intron-A. They activate the protective functions of the body, which helps to cope with the virus. The duration of treatment with such means can be up to a year. These drugs are relatively inexpensive, and therefore they are used more often than others.
• Peligated interferons. They have a prolonged action. Polyethylene glycol is added to the medicines of this group, which enhances the effectiveness. This group includes Pegasys, Pegintron and some others. Their use leads to the activation of intracellular enzymes that fight the pathogen. The course of treatment is from 6 months to a year.
• consensus interferons. These drugs are considered the most advanced. Their production has been actively conducted over the past few years. With their use, it is possible to cope with the virus in six months. Infargen is considered the most effective means of this group today. It will help to cope with the disease even for those who are already undergoing an unsuccessful course of treatment by other methods.

Ribavirin helps to enhance the effect of interferon preparations. The components of the agent quickly penetrate into the cells and prevent the division of the virus. The dosage is selected based on the patient's body weight.

The effectiveness and duration of treatment for hepatitis C will largely depend on the genotype of the virus, its concentration in the blood, as well as the age and individual characteristics of the person. Treatment of such a disease in young women is much easier than in older women and men.

This year, there have been many reports of miracle cures being sold that can cure hepatitis in a couple of weeks. Remember that there is no evidence of the effectiveness of such drugs, and their use does not guarantee the result.

The use of hepatoprotectors

Of great importance in hepatitis C is the use of hepatoprotectors. These drugs help repair damaged liver cells and protect healthy ones from destruction. With their help, it is possible to relieve acute symptoms: weakness, bouts of nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite. Among the most effective hepatoprotectors are:

• Heptral. This drug stimulates the production of bile, activates the digestive system, promotes rapid recovery of liver cells. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, which can alleviate the symptoms of the disease. Treatment begins with intravenous administration of the drug for three weeks. After this, the patient is transferred to taking a tablet medication. Before use, it is recommended to study the detailed instructions.
• Essentiale Forte. One of the most modern hepatoprotectors. experts say that this is a remedy that will help restore even a badly damaged liver. The composition of the drug includes phospholipids obtained from soybeans. This drug is prohibited for use in infancy, as well as with individual intolerance to its components. It rarely causes side effects.
• Phosphogliv. The components of this drug help restore the walls of diseased cells. It is made on the basis of natural vegetable raw materials. The use of such a tool helps the liver to better cope with toxic substances entering it. The duration of therapy is six months or more. Information about the consequences of an overdose and interaction with other drugs has not been identified.
• Ursosan. This remedy is made on the basis of ursodeoxycholic acid. It protects liver cells from destruction, stimulates the body's defenses, and helps to eliminate toxins from the liver. Available in encapsulated form. Long-term use this drug helps to normalize blood cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of stone formation. Simultaneous use with antacids is not recommended, as they reduce the effectiveness of Urososan. In some cases, there may be side effects, for example, bouts of vomiting and nausea, stool disorders, pain in the abdomen. The dosage is selected based on the weight of the patient. The duration of therapy can reach several years.

It is forbidden to arbitrarily change the dosage or interrupt the course of treatment with such means. If any side effects occur, you should consult your doctor.

Means for restoring immunity

With hepatitis C, it is important to restore the normal functioning of the immune system. Otherwise, the body simply does not have enough strength to cope with the disease. Experts recommend the use of the following groups of drugs:

• Immunomodulators. With their help, it is possible to restore the damaged links of the protection of the human body. Substances that are part of such funds replace the missing components and restore immunity. Such medicines are more often prescribed for hepatitis. These include Neovir, Genferon, Anaferon and others.
• Immunostimulants. They activate the immune system in those places where it is most weakened.
• Immunocorrectors. Such medicines have a point effect. Their use is advisable in the early stages of the disease, when immunity suffers in a particular place.
• Immunosuppressants. These agents inhibit the work of the body's defense system. They are used only if a person has undergone a donor liver transplant.

It is possible to restore the protective functions of the body with the help of natural remedies. This will help propolis, royal jelly, bee venom. It is worth remembering that sometimes bee products can cause an allergic reaction. In this case, they can be replaced with sprouted grains of rye or oats, echinacea extract, wild rose or eleutherococcus.

Proper nutrition will also help strengthen the immune system. The diet should include as many vegetables, berries and fruits as possible. Every morning should start with gymnastic exercises. Moderate physical activity during the day also has a positive effect on the well-being of patients. Try to spend more time outdoors. Walks in squares and parks, trips to the forest and especially to the sea bring benefits.

Diet food

The hepatitis C virus can be defeated only if a special diet is observed. Proper Diet It will help relieve the increased load on the digestive system and strengthen the immune system. You must adhere to the following recommendations:

• Organize meals in several meals in small portions. It is best to eat at least five times a day. In this case, the total calorie content should not exceed 3000 kcal.
• From the menu completely exclude fatty, fried, smoked and overly salty foods. Refuse to use semi-finished products and canned food.
• Most of the menu should be pureed dishes. Vegetables are best stewed or boiled. Meat and fish can be baked and steamed.
• Try to increase the fiber content in your meals.
• Drink enough clean water. You need to drink at least two liters per day.
• The main menu should be lean varieties meat and fish, fruits, vegetables, pasta, low-fat dairy products, eggs, bread. Salads can be flavored with vegetable oil. The use of natural juices, weak tea, compotes and jelly is recommended.
• It is better to refuse confectionery. Marshmallow, marshmallow, jam and honey are allowed as sweets.
• The list of prohibited fruits includes melons, kiwi and strawberries. It is also worth giving up mushrooms, whole milk, cream and sour cream.

If acute hepatitis C is diagnosed, which indicates the active action of the virus, then dietary restriction is essential. This will help relieve the symptoms that appear and cope with the virus faster. Treatment of a chronic disease requires more time, so you can make small indulgences in the diet. But the principle proper nutrition better to keep.

Drugs to reduce the negative effects of medications

The body of some patients may show a negative reaction, and they do not know what this means when fighting hepatitis. In fact, this is a response to the use of antiviral drugs. The use of such funds is well tolerated only at a young age. In older patients, side effects appear. You can reduce the negative impact of drugs on the body with the help of specialized means: