Hepatitis C is a disease that infects the liver. It can be mild to severe. Although it may not cause symptoms, Hepatitis C can cause serious liver damage, leading to liver cancer or scarring of the organ (cirrhosis). The condition often goes undetected as it does not always have symptoms, or only mild, flu-like symptoms. The disease is not always curable but can be treated with antiviral medication.
When should I get tested?
Hepatitis C is most commonly transmitted through sharing needles used to inject drugs. It is more of a blood virus, & less easily transmitted through bodily fluids, but it can also be transmitted through sexual contact, or by sharing toothbrushes or razors with an infected person.
What the test includes?
The test for Hepatitis C is a simple blood test.
Procedure
Step 1
Preparing for test
We recommend you to arrive well-hydrated to make it easier to take your blood sample.
Step 2
During the test
Following a consultation to discuss symptoms, questions, or concerns, the doctor or nurse will draw a small amount of blood from your arm with a needle.
Step 3
Results
Your results will be available in the method that best suits you, whether over the telephone, by email, in the post as a hard copy, or by collection from our clinic.
FAQs
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis C?
In the acute stages, Hepatitis C usually manifests with mild symptoms similar to the flu, such as nausea, vomiting, mild fever, & joint pain. In some cases, there will be no symptoms at all, which is why it often goes undetected.
If the symptoms are mild, why do I need to get tested for Hepatitis C?
Despite its symptoms, Hepatitis C is a serious disease that can cause permanent damage to the liver if left untreated.
How long do I need to wait following exposure in order to get tested for Hepatitis?
The window period for Hepatitis is roughly two months, so if you are concerned about infection, it is best to wait until this time period has passed from your first exposure. If you have the test sooner, the results will not be accurate.
