Hepatitis C is a condition that results in the inflammation of the liver that is caused by a virus known as hepatitis C virus HCV. Hepatitis C is among the three hepatitis viral infections, along with Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Hepatitis C may prevail as acute illness and may develop within 6 months from the time of exposure. However, a large population of people diagnosed with hepatitis C is found to have chronic symptoms, which are potentially lifelong.

Many of the people do not experience hepatitis c symptoms, a situation that makes a considerable number of patients live with the infection for a long time before realizing. As a result of this, the liver is significantly damaged to the extent it becomes insufficient in accomplishing its roles. Out of 3 or 4 people, only 1 expresses the symptoms during the first 6 months since contracting the infection. The following symptoms usually occur within the first few weeks after exposure. The most common signs that develop include:

1. High Temperature

People with hepatitis C are likely to experience increased body temperature beyond 38C. Increased temperature results as the body’s immune cells try to react to the new pathogen in the body. High temperatures may result in fever, making a person uncomfortable. However, the fever may not last for long, and it heals on itself.

2. Loss of appetite

Appetite loss is another common symptom that develops during initial exposure to HCV. When a person loses appetite, the level of food intake is lowered, which significantly reduces the amount of nutrients to be absorbed and consequently hindering the body’s immune system. People are likely to develop other secondary conditions that might be treated, leaving the primary cause unnoticed. Besides, the body generally starts appearing weak.

3. Abdominal pains

Most of the abdominal pains are taken as nothing serious as they don’t last for long. When hepatitis C virus begins to invade the body, the target organ is specifically the liver. The liver is a special organ that produces and stores bile, regulates blood glucose, and eliminates toxic substances. When its functions are reduced or altered, toxic substances may start accumulating in the body resulting in stomach aches.

4. Late symptoms of hepatitis C

If early measures are not taken, the disease progresses to the chronic stage. During the chronic phase, the symptoms vary in different people. Some people barely experience noticeable symptoms, while others the symptoms can impact the quality of their life significantly.

To others, the symptoms may also disappear for some time and then resume back. Among the symptoms experienced by people with chronic infections include:

• Jaundice: This is a condition that results in the yellowing of skin and eyes. Although not all the people with hepatitis C infection experience this symptom, 1 in about 5 will have it. This condition is harmless and is usually curable.
• Depression: It is very common for people with chronic hepatitis C to feel depressed. This condition affects the individual’s personal and social lifestyle. However, with the right treatment and support, the majority of people recover quickly.

5. When to consult a doctor

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is vital to contact your health officer for a check-up. Remember, the infection is easily manageable at the early stages. Doctors advocate for a regular check-up to cab any infection before it develops into the chronic phase.