Frequently
Asked
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions


Below are answers to some Hep C–related questions you might have right now.


 

  • HEP C BASICS

      • What is Hep C?

          • Hep C is a serious virus that infects the liver and is spread through contact with the blood of an infected person.

          • There are different types of Hep C, each of which can cause severe and permanent liver damage if left untreated. But the good news is, all can be cured.

          • Cure means the Hep C virus is not detected in the blood when measured 3 months after treatment is completed.

          LEARN ABOUT HEP C BASICS

      • How does someone get Hep C?

          • Using drugs that involve needles or straws

          • Using unsterilized tattoo equipment

          • Having sex with a person infected with Hep C

          • Sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes

          • Receiving needlestick injuries in healthcare settings

          • Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 
            1992

          • Being born to a mother with Hep C

      • What are the symptoms of Hep C?

          • Hep C is sometimes known as the “silent disease” because some people show Hep C symptoms while others live for years without any obvious signs of Hep C.

          • Either way, don’t wait for symptoms of Hep C to appear. By the time they do, your liver may be severely damaged.

          • Click to see a full list of chronic Hep C symptoms you may experience once your liver has been damaged.

          SEE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEP C

      • How do I get a Hep C blood test?

          • The simple, one-time Hep C blood test is covered by most private health insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare plans, but testing for Hep C is not usually part of routine blood work.

          • Call your healthcare professional before your next appointment to have the Hep C blood test added to your lab order.

          LEARN ABOUT HEP C TESTING

  • HEP C TREATMENT

      • I just found out I have Hep C, now what?

          • A Hep C diagnosis may feel overwhelming, and you might ask yourself, “What was the cause of my Hep C?”

          • You are not alone.

      • Why should I treat my Hep C?

          • Left untreated, chronic Hep C can cause liver damage, liver cancer, and even death.

          • However, Hep C can be cured.

          • Ask your healthcare professional about today’s Hep C treatments, which have cure rates of 95% or higher, without the harsh side effects of previous medicines.

          LEARN ABOUT TREATING HEP C

      • What Hep C treatments are available?

          • There are several kinds of Hep C treatments available.

          • Hep C treatments work in different ways and are not all the same.

          • Most of today's Hep C treatments are taken by mouth for 12 weeks or less.

          • You and your healthcare professional should discuss which Hep C treatment option is best for you.

        • What are the most common side effects of Hep C treatment?

            • Today’s Hep C treatments are not injections and do not have the harsh side effects of older medications.

            • Common side effects of today’s Hep C medications include headache and tiredness.

            • Most of today’s Hep C treatments are taken by mouth for 12 weeks or less.

            • Hep C treatment may affect how well other medicines work or cause additional side effects when combined.

            • Tell your healthcare professional about all the medicines you take including birth control, antacids, and cholesterol treatments.

            LEARN ABOUT TREATING HEP C

        • Is there a chance my body will just cure itself?

            • Approximately 15% to 25% of people who get acute Hep C will not progress to chronic Hep C. These people are able to rid themselves of the virus without treatment.

            • About 75% to 85% of people progress to chronic Hep C and can only get rid of the Hep C virus with a prescription treatment.

            • Even if you think you were only recently infected, it’s best to talk with a healthcare professional right away.

            FIND A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL

        • Where else can I find information on Hep C screening and treatment?

            • Check out the latest recommendations about testing for Hep C and Hep C treatments from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

            • The CDC recommends that all adults should get screened for Hep C.

            LEARN MORE FROM THE CDC

    • HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS AND COST

        • What type of doctor should I see for Hep C?

            • Your regular healthcare professional can test and treat you for Hep C.

            • If your healthcare professional can’t treat you, ask to be referred to one who specializes in Hep C and is up to date on the latest scientific advances, including the latest Hep C treatments.

            • Healthcare professionals who specialize in Hep C can include gastroenterologists, hepatologists, infectious disease doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.

            FIND A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL

        • How much does Hep C treatment cost?

            • It may be more affordable than you think because Hep C treatments are covered by most private health insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare plans.

            • Your healthcare professional will work with your insurance company to identify your coverage and possible financial support options.

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