Best Hepatitis C Doctors in Hyderabad

Hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids. It can cause chronic liver inflammation and long-term liver damage. HCV spreads through various means including sharing drug needles, accidental exposure to infected needles, using unsterilised equipment in tattoo parlours or sharing personal care items that have come into contact with infected body fluids/blood. Unprotected sexual activities and exposure to infected needles or equipment in medical or prison settings can also contribute to the spread of the virus.

In Hyderabad, hepatitis C infection is a significant health concern. However, Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad has some of the best doctors for hepatitis C treatment who are well-equipped to provide top-notch care and personalised treatments for patients.

Types/Stages of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C progresses through several stages, such as:

• Incubation Period: This is the period from exposure to the virus until the onset of symptoms. It can range from 14 to 80 days.

• Acute Hepatitis C: This phase lasts for the first 6 months post-infection. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, and clay-coloured stools.

• Chronic Hepatitis C: This stage occurs when the acute infection does not resolve on its own, leading to serious health conditions such as liver cancer and liver failure.

• Cirrhosis: A condition where scar tissues replace healthy liver cells causing numerous health problems.

• End-Stage Hepatitis C: This occurs when the liver is severely damaged and can no longer function properly.

Symptoms of Hepatitis C

People with Hepatitis C often experience a range of symptoms including:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal Pain

• Dark Urine

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• Joint Pain

Tests to Diagnose Hepatitis C

At Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, the best doctors for hepatitis C use a combination of tests for diagnosis, such as:

• Antibody Test: This checks for the presence of antibodies to the HCV in the blood.

• PCR Test: This detects the presence of HCV RNA, indicating a current HCV infection.

• Genotype Test: This test helps determine the specific strain of HCV.

• Liver Function Tests: These tests measure liver enzymes and proteins to determine the extent of liver damage.

• Imaging Tests: Scans like ultrasound, CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and MRE (Magnetic Resonance Elastography) assess liver damage and rule out other liver diseases.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Hepatitis C at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad

The viral hepatitis C treatment doctors at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad offer a comprehensive range of treatment options for hepatitis C, which include:

• Antiviral Medications: Antiviral medications like Interferon, Peginterferon, Ribavirin, and newer medications like Elbasvir-Grazoprevir are used to treat chronic Hepatitis C.

• Liver Transplant: This procedure is considered by hepatitis C specialist doctors when the liver is severely damaged.

• Diet and Lifestyle Modifications: Managing lifestyle habits, including dietary modifications and regular physical activity, is crucial for maintaining liver health and preventing complications.