Comprehensive Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment in Hialeah, Florida

At League Against AIDS in Hialeah, Florida, led by Dr. Clara Baccini MD PA, we specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Hepatitis C, a serious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C is often referred to as a “silent” infection because many individuals do not experience symptoms until the liver has already been significantly damaged. However, with early detection and treatment, Hepatitis C can be cured, reducing the risk of liver-related complications and improving long-term health outcomes.

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, and it is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. The virus can cause both acute and chronic Hepatitis C, with chronic infections potentially leading to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure over time. Hepatitis C is a major public health concern, as it is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease and liver transplants worldwide.

How is Hepatitis C Spread?

Hepatitis C is most commonly spread through direct contact with infected blood. This can occur through:

• Sharing needles or syringes used for injecting drugs
• Receiving contaminated blood products or organ transplants (though this is rare in modern healthcare systems due to screening)
• Needlestick injuries in healthcare settings
• Sharing personal items that may have blood on them, such as razors or toothbrushes
• Unregulated tattooing or body piercing practices that involve unsterilized equipment

While less common, Hepatitis C can also be transmitted through sexual contact, particularly if there is a risk of blood exposure. Pregnant women with Hepatitis C can pass the virus to their baby during childbirth.

Symptoms of Hepatitis C

Many people with Hepatitis C do not experience symptoms until the infection has caused significant liver damage. However, in cases where symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Dark urine
• Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper right side near the liver
• Joint pain

If left untreated, Hepatitis C can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, all of which can be life-threatening. Early detection through testing is critical to managing the infection and preventing complications.

How is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?

Hepatitis C is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of the Hepatitis C virus or antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus. If you are at risk of Hepatitis C or suspect that you may have been exposed to the virus, it is important to get tested as soon as possible. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and can prevent the progression of liver disease.