Hepatitis C is often called a “silent disease” because many people don’t realize they have it until serious liver damage occurs. May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, a time to encourage testing and treatment. Central Florida Health Care (CFHC) offers confidential testing and effective treatment for patients affected by this blood‑borne liver disease.

Hepatitis C is often called a “silent disease” because many people don’t realize they have it until serious liver damage occurs. May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, a time to encourage testing and treatment. Central Florida Health Care (CFHC) offers confidential testing and effective treatment for patients affected by this blood‑borne liver disease. CFHC Nurse Practitioner Linda Gellatly explains that Hepatitis C (HCV) is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. “In many cases, the infection becomes chronic and can lead to severe complications, including cirrhosis and liver cancer,” Gellatly says. Because symptoms are often mild or nonexistent, many people may live with Hepatitis C for years without knowing it. The good news is that Hepatitis C is now curable for most patients when detected early and treated with prescribed antiviral medications. The primary risk factors for Hepatitis C are linked to blood‑to‑blood contact. This most commonly occurs through sharing needles or syringes during drug use. However, exposure can also happen through unregulated tattoos or piercings, as well as blood transfusions received before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began. Hepatitis C is rarely transmitted through sexual contact, pregnancy, or sharing of personal items such as razors, but the risk increases if blood is present. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all adults be tested for Hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime. Gellatly adds that prevention starts with avoiding the sharing of needles and personal hygiene items such as razors and toothbrushes, since bleeding gums can increase the risk of blood exposure. Although there is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C, antiviral treatments are highly effective and can cure most cases. Central Florida Health Care is committed to supporting patients every step of the way by providing education, testing, and compassionate care. All Hepatitis C services at CFHC are confidential, and our dedicated team is here to help you protect your health and live your best life. The post Breaking the Silence on Hepatitis C appeared first on Central Florida Health Care.