HEPATITIS C
If you've been told you have Hepatitis C, had a positive test, or think you may have been exposed, you're probably looking for answers. The good news is that today's treatment is simple and cures the vast majority of people who complete it.
You don't have to figure it out alone.
Hepatitis C is an infection that affects your liver. Many people don't know they have it because it often causes no symptoms for years. Left untreated, it can slowly damage the liver over time.
The good news is that Hepatitis C can be tested for, treated, and cured.
Hepatitis C spreads when blood carrying the virus enters another person's bloodstream. It can be spread through unsterile tattoo or piercing equipment, and, less commonly, through sexual contact or during childbirth. Blood transfusions were once a common source of transmission, before routine blood screening began. Most new cases today happen through sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs.
Anyone can get Hepatitis C. Having it does not define who you are.
Yes. Many people feel completely healthy for years before they learn they have Hepatitis C. That's why testing is so important. Finding it early gives you the opportunity to treat it before it causes serious liver damage.
Hepatitis C can quietly damage your liver over time, even if you feel well. Left untreated, it can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. Treatment can stop the virus before it causes more damage.
Today's treatment is nothing like it used to be. For most people, treatment consists of oral medication taken once a day for about 8 to 12 weeks. The long, difficult treatments that were once common have been replaced by simpler medications that cure Hepatitis C for the vast majority of people who complete treatment.
Most people continue working, caring for their families, and living their everyday lives while they're on treatment.
Being cured means the virus is gone from your body. For many people, the liver can begin to heal, and the risk of future liver damage is greatly reduced. You can return to living your life without Hepatitis C, although it's still important to protect yourself from future exposure because it is possible to become infected again.
Whether you need testing, have recently been diagnosed, or are ready to begin treatment, we're here to walk you through every step. We provide Hepatitis C education, testing, treatment, and ongoing support.
If you don't have insurance, you may qualify for free testing, treatment, and medication assistance through our program. If you have insurance, we're here for you too.
No matter where you're starting, we'll help you understand your options and what comes next.
Call us to talk through your options, schedule testing, or start treatment. No referral needed.
