Hepatitis C Treatment
Florida Digestive Specialists
Gastroenterologists located in St. Petersburg, FL
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to serious damage if left untreated. Many people have few or no symptoms at first, which makes testing especially important.
At Florida Digestive Specialists, our experienced gastroenterology team provides comprehensive testing and personalized treatment plans. Today’s advanced antiviral medications can cure hepatitis C in most patients, often in as little as 8 to 12 weeks. We specialize in liver disease care and provide close monitoring throughout treatment.
To schedule an appointment, call our St. Petersburg office or book online.
2.4 million Americans live with Hep C¹
95%+ cure rate with treatment²
8-12 weeks typical treatment duration³
Hepatitis C Treatment
What is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation and damage to your liver. The virus spreads through contact with infected blood, and many people don’t realize they’re infected until liver damage has occurred.
Hepatitis C exists in two forms: acute infection, which occurs within the first six months after exposure, and chronic infection, which develops when your body can’t clear the virus on its own. Most people with acute hepatitis C develop chronic infection.
Chronic hepatitis C can remain silent for decades while gradually damaging your liver. Over time, the ongoing inflammation leads to scarring (fibrosis) and eventually cirrhosis, where your liver becomes severely scarred and loses its ability to function properly.
Left untreated, chronic hepatitis C increases your risk of liver failure, liver cancer, and other serious complications. However, today’s antiviral medications can cure hepatitis C in the vast majority of patients, preventing further liver damage.
Understanding Hepatitis C Complications
Cirrhosis & Liver Failure
Years of chronic inflammation cause progressive scarring (fibrosis) that eventually leads to cirrhosis. Advanced cirrhosis impairs liver function, leading to fluid accumulation, bleeding problems, confusion, and ultimately liver failure requiring transplantation.
Liver Cancer Risk
Chronic hepatitis C significantly increases the risk of liver cancer, especially in patients with cirrhosis. Regular screening with ultrasound and blood tests helps detect cancer early when treatment is most effective.
Other health issues caused by hepatitis C
Hepatitis C can affect organs beyond the liver, causing kidney disease, blood vessel inflammation, diabetes, skin conditions, and joint pain. These complications may improve or resolve after successful treatment.
Common Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Easy bruising or bleeding
Note: Many people have no symptoms until liver disease is advanced
When should I seek hepatitis C treatment?
You should schedule an appointment with Florida Digestive Specialists if you test positive for hepatitis C or have risk factors that warrant testing. Anyone born between 1945 and 1965 should get tested at least once, as this age group has the highest infection rates.
Other situations requiring testing include having ever injected drugs, receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, being on long-term hemodialysis, having HIV infection, or being exposed to hepatitis C-positive blood through needlestick injuries or other exposures.
Even if you have no symptoms, early detection and treatment are crucial. Treatment is recommended for almost all patients with chronic hepatitis C, regardless of the degree of liver damage. Starting treatment sooner can prevent progression to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
What should I expect during hepatitis C diagnosis and treatment?
Your care team at Florida Digestive Specialists will start by running a few tests to confirm your diagnosis and learn more about your infection. These tests help determine which type (genotype) of hepatitis C you have and how your liver is doing. This usually involves blood work, and sometimes a simple, noninvasive scan called a FibroScan. In rare cases, a liver biopsy may be needed.
Once your results are in, your doctor will prescribe medication designed specifically for your type of hepatitis C. Today’s treatments are called direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). These medications stop the virus from multiplying so your body can clear the infection.
Most treatment plans last 8 to 12 weeks, and the medication is taken as a pill once a day. The good news is that side effects are usually mild, especially compared to older treatments. Many people can continue their normal daily activities while on therapy.
If you’ve been diagnosed with hepatitis C or need screening, call Florida Digestive Specialists or book an appointment online.