More than 3.5 million people live with chronic hepatitis C infections. Matt Pabis, MD, offers comprehensive care for hepatitis C infections at his self-titled family practice in the East Village area of New York City. Dr. Pabis offers on-site blood testing and effective medications to treat hepatitis C. He can also provide guidance in preventing future infections, especially if you work in the healthcare field or need blood transfusions. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone today.
request an appointmentWhat is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can lead to serious liver damage. The infection spreads through contaminated blood and causes chronic inflammation in your liver.
You may be at an increased risk of catching the hepatitis C virus if you work in the health care industry where you have a greater chance of being exposed to the virus through contaminated needles. Other risk factors for contracting hepatitis C include:
- Getting a tattoo
- Using unsterile needles
- Undergoing blood transfusions
You are also at an increased risk of getting hepatitis C if you have HIV due to your weakened immune system.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?
You can have a hepatitis C infection for years before showing any symptoms. Often, your liver can become damaged, and you won’t know about it for a long time until you start experiencing symptoms, such as:
- Bruising
- Itchy skin
- Dark urine
- Chronic fatigue
- Swelling in the legs
- Changes in appetite
Liver damage can also cause jaundice, a condition where your skin and eyes appear yellow in color. In some cases, you may also develop ongoing muscle aches and a fever as liver damage progresses.
What treatment options are available for hepatitis C?
Dr. Pabis can identify hepatitis C through a blood test. He may also order additional tests, such as an MRI or liver biopsy, to determine if the virus has damaged your liver.
Treating your infection depends on the progression of the condition and if your liver has become damaged. In many cases, antiviral medications are able to clear the infection from your blood. If you have liver damage, Dr. Pabis may refer you to a specialist for further treatment.
You should also consider getting vaccinated to protect yourself against the hepatitis A and B viruses. While there is no vaccination for hepatitis C, the other immunizations can prevent additional complications to your liver.
To learn more about screening for hepatitis C, book an appointment with Matt Pabis, MD. Call his office in the Manhattan area of New York City or use the online booking tool to schedule your visit today.