By Dr. Kyle ScarboroughWhat’s Going Around
There are several
viruses that cause hepatitis, with different degrees of severity.
Hepatitis C is the most worrisome, as it can lead to liver failure or
liver cancer. It is transmitted through contact with blood products,
usually through needle sticks. Health care workers and intravenous drug
users are at the highest risk. Blood transfusions were a frequent source
before 1987, when screening tests were developed.
Signs and symptoms: Early signs include fatigue
and nausea. Jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes and skin is common.
Advanced cases cause mental confusion and can be fatal.
What to do: New medications recently approved have a ninety percent cure rate, but are extremely expensive. Advanced cases may require liver transplant. There is no effective vaccine. Blood exposure precautions are crucial. Avoid sharing toothbrushes or razor blades with household members. Casual contact, such as hugging or kissing, are considered safe. Tattoos are considered low-risk only if done in a properly regulated facility.
Thought for the day: There’s new hope for patients with hepatitis C, but you have to cover the pharmacy fee!
What’s Going Around is contributed by family practice doctor Kyle Scarborough, M.D. You can reach him at drscarborough@familylifemedical.com.
What to do: New medications recently approved have a ninety percent cure rate, but are extremely expensive. Advanced cases may require liver transplant. There is no effective vaccine. Blood exposure precautions are crucial. Avoid sharing toothbrushes or razor blades with household members. Casual contact, such as hugging or kissing, are considered safe. Tattoos are considered low-risk only if done in a properly regulated facility.
Thought for the day: There’s new hope for patients with hepatitis C, but you have to cover the pharmacy fee!
What’s Going Around is contributed by family practice doctor Kyle Scarborough, M.D. You can reach him at drscarborough@familylifemedical.com.
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