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Hepatitis C Warning Signs

Hepatitis C is a contagious disease caused by exposure to a certain kind of virus (see the drawing to the left). This virus causes inflammation of the liver, which can compromise liver function and lead to a serious scarring process known as cirrhosis.

Happily though, sometimes “hep C” results in nothing more than an acute but mild form, and no symptoms ever appear. The virus passes out of the body in a matter of months. But it can definitely be dangerous, even life-threatening, if it becomes chronic.

Four out of five people who contract acute hepatitis C never show any symptoms. But for the remaining 20 percent, the following warning signs may appear.

* Jaundice, which causes the skin and eyes to become yellowed, is a classic sign of liver problems.

* Gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and clay-colored stools during bowel movements.

* Darker than normal urine

* Decreased appetite, often leading to unintentional weight loss.

* Fever, fatigue, and joint pain

Even in those who develop chronic hepatitis C, warning signs often don’t appear until there’s been significant damage to the liver. Therefore, regular physical checkups that include blood screening are important for detecting the hepatitis C virus as early as possible.

In addition to the symptoms previously listed, indications of chronic hepatitis C could include the following.

* Abdominal bloating and tenderness as fluids build up (a condition known as ascites).

* Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs, caused whe these fluids move downward from the force of gravity.

* Skin becomes unusually itchy as toxins spread through the bloodstream

The purpose of this video has been to provide quick, basic information on hepatitis C warning signs. To learn more about hepatitis C and other liver problems, click on the links below the video screen.

And always remember, you should rely only on advice from a medical professional in any matter related to your health.
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Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver disease. Watch Dr. Campbell’s Health PITCH to learn more about getting tested for Hepatitis C. For more men’s health information, visit our website: http://www.lahey.org/ExecutiveHealth/.
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