Hepatitis C (HCV) is a virus spread primarily by blood-to-blood contact that attacks the liver. Over time, it leads to inflammation and serious liver damage. In the United States, injection-drug use is the most common mode of transmission. However, HCV can also be transmitted through sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes that may have blood on them.
The virus can remain dormant for years, making it crucial for individuals who are at risk to get tested regularly. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of severe liver complications. To learn more about Hepatitis C treatment, call us today at 855.590.9944.
How Would I Know if I Have Hepatitis C?
Most of the time patients who are newly infected with HCV do not have any symptoms or have mild non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. The CDC now recommends universal screening for Hepatitis C for all U.S. adults. Two tests are necessary to confirm the diagnosis of Hepatitis C. The first test is to evaluate for the presence of Hepatitis C antibodies.
The HCV antibody test will be positive if you have ever had Hepatitis C. However, approximately 25% of patients who are infected with Hepatitis C will “self-clear” the infection and will not require treatment. Regardless of if you have successfully self-cleared HCV or if you have been successfully treated and cured from HCV, this test will continue to show positive for the rest of your life. A second test must be performed to confirm active infection and that is a quantitative HCV RNA, or a measure of the amount of hepatitis C virus in the blood.
If I Don’t Have any Symptoms, Why Should I Get Treatment?
Even though Hepatitis C (HCV) is now curable, an estimated 2.7 million Americans are living with chronic HCV infection. Approximately 15–25% of individuals infected with Hepatitis C will develop cirrhosis, a serious condition that can lead to significant health complications.
Cirrhosis of the liver increases your risk of developing liver cancer and loss of liver function. Early detection and treatment of HCV can help prevent the progression to cirrhosis and improve overall health outcomes.
Regular monitoring and medical check-ups are essential for those living with chronic HCV to manage their condition effectively. Additionally, raising awareness about HCV and its potential consequences can encourage more individuals to seek testing and treatment.
Why Roaring Brook Recovery Center?
We are in a unique position at Roaring Brook Recovery Center to provide HCV treatment in an environment conducive to recovery, free of any stigma or judgments commonly associated with HCV. We are pleased to announce that we are now offering in-house HCV treatment for most patients.
Our program involves a comprehensive medical intake, all required lab work, and thorough education throughout treatment. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients not only receive medical care but also the support and resources they need to thrive.
Our HCV treatment will involve peer support counseling at the beginning, middle, and end of treatment to either introduce or promote adherence to a healthy, substance free lifestyle. At Roaring Brook, we strive for all our patients to abstain from substance use. However, due to the severity of this disease, we will not require an IOP (intensive outpatient program) for patients if they chose to abstain from substance use treatment or are no longer in active addiction.
Get the Help You Need Today
Insurance now covers HCV treatment and many of the barriers that previously existed are no longer required by Medicare/Medicaid. There is no reason to wait to get help. Schedule your appointment today. Call us today at 855.590.9944 or use our online contact form to get started.