What You Need to Know

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is one of the most common causes of liver diseases, but the good news is that it can be treated and, in many cases, cured with proper medical care. At Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, a liver specialist with advanced training in hepatology and liver transplant care, provides expert treatment and support to those affected by Hepatitis C.

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is caused by a virus that infects the liver. The liver is an important organ responsible for filtering toxins from the body, storing energy, and helping with digestion. When the liver is infected by HCV, it may become inflamed and unable to function properly. Over time, if untreated, it can lead to serious problems like scarring (fibrosis), liver failure, or even liver cancer.

Hepatitis C is often called a “silent disease” because many people don’t experience symptoms in the early stages. Without treatment, the virus can slowly damage the liver over many years.

How Do People Get Hepatitis C?

HCV spreads through contact with infected blood. Some common ways it spreads include:

• Sharing needles or syringes during drug use
• Unsafe medical or dental procedures with unsterilized instruments
• Blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1992 (when proper screening was not in place)
• Infected mother to child during childbirth
• Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected person (rare)

It is important to note that Hepatitis C is not spread by:

• Hugging, kissing, or shaking hands
• Sharing food or utensils
• Breastfeeding
• Casual contact

Symptoms of Hepatitis C

Because the disease develops slowly, many people don’t feel sick for years. However, as the virus damages the liver, symptoms may appear, such as:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine or pale-colored stool
• Pain in the abdomen
• Swelling in the legs or abdomen (in advanced stages)

If you experience these symptoms or suspect you may be at risk, it’s important to consult a liver specialist for diagnosis.

How is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Hepatitis C is simple and involves:

1. Blood Tests – To detect the virus and check liver function
2. Liver Imaging – Ultrasound or FibroScan to assess liver health
3. Liver Biopsy (in some cases) – To determine the extent of liver damage

Early diagnosis is crucial. Many patients live normal lives without symptoms for years, but liver damage can continue silently.

Treatment Options for Hepatitis C

The biggest breakthrough in the last decade is that Hepatitis C is now curable in most cases with the right treatment. Treatment depends on the type of virus, the amount of liver damage, and other health conditions.

Antiviral Medications

Modern oral medications, known as Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs), are highly effective in curing the infection. They work by stopping the virus from multiplying and helping the liver heal. These treatments usually last between 8 to 12 weeks and have fewer side effects compared to older therapies.

Monitoring Liver Health

Even after treatment, the liver should be monitored regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly and to check for complications such as scarring or cancer.

Lifestyle Support

Along with medicines, a healthy lifestyle plays an important role:

• Avoid alcohol and tobacco
• Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
• Manage other conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol

Can Hepatitis C be Prevented?

Yes! By following a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection:

• Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes
• Ensure medical or dental procedures are done with sterilized instruments
• Get screened if you’ve had any risky exposure or blood transfusions
• Practice safe sex and avoid contact with blood
• Vaccinate for hepatitis A and B if you are at risk (there is no vaccine for hepatitis C yet)

Why Choose Expert Care at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune?

At Ruby Hall Clinic, you get access to world-class care under the guidance of Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, one of the most experienced liver specialists in the region. Dr. Madke has advanced training in hepatology from ILBS, New Delhi, and additional experience in liver transplant care from Dr. Rela Institute, Chennai.

With over 5 years of experience, Dr. Madke has treated hundreds of patients with liver diseases, including Hepatitis C, using the latest technology and evidence-based care. He is also actively involved in research and awareness programs, educating healthcare professionals and patients about liver health.

His compassionate approach ensures that every patient is treated with dignity and receives personalized care tailored to their condition.

Take Action Today

If you or someone you love is at risk or already affected by Hepatitis C, early diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Visit Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, and consult with Dr. Tushar Madke to begin your journey towards better liver health.

📞 Book your appointment today and take the first step in protecting your liver.