Treatment of Hepatitis C by Expert Dr. Bharat Pothuri.
Dr. Pothuri operates in a step-by-step manner:
Medical History and Exam
He examines your risk factors (IV drug use, unlicensed tattoos/piercings, transfusions before 1992), inquires about any of the symptoms, including epigastric discomfort, fatigue, jaundice and makes an abdominal examination to look at enlargement or tenderness of the liver.
Blood Tests
We request HCV antibody and RNA tests to prove infection and liver functionality tests (ALT, AST) to determine the active liver damage.
Imaging Studies
- The ultrasound of the abdomen assesses the size of liver, its texture, and stenosis and cirrhosis.
- FibroScan is a noninvasive system to measure the liver stiffness that is used to measure the fibrosis.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
There are some cases when a percutaneous liver biopsy measures inflammation and fibrosis, or endoscopy examines varices in the case of the raised suspicion of portal hypertension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a liver infection that is caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). When untreated it may result in chronic liver disease.
What is the mode of transmission of hepatitis C?
It is transmitted via blood-to-blood contact- most often through sharing of needles, unsterilized medical equipment, or blood transfusion until 1992.
What are the symptoms that I need to observe?
Many people have no symptoms. In their case, they are fatigue, jaundice, nausea, abdominal pains and black urine.
How is hepatitis C diagnosed?
The diagnosis is done by blood tests, an antibody test in order to screen and HCV RNA test to confirm a state of active infection.
What are the treatment alternatives?
Over 95 percent of cases can be treated in 812 weeks with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs having few side effects.
Can hepatitis C be prevented?
Prevention comprises of sharing needles, screening blood products and standard precautions within healthcare facilities.
Am I to be monitored continuously on cure?
Yes. Advanced fibrosis or cirrhotic patients should have hepatology follow-up and screening of liver cancer throughout their lifespan.