What happens if hepatitis C is not treated?
Oct 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Haiying
Introduction
In general, hepatitis C refers to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. If left untreated, hepatitis C may lead to abnormal liver function, chronic hepatitis C, severe ascites, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. Additionally, complications such as hepatic encephalopathy and liver failure may occur. If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, they should seek timely medical attention at a hospital.
In general, hepatitis C refers to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. If left untreated, hepatitis C may lead to abnormal liver function, chronic hepatitis C, severe ascites formation, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Patients are advised to follow medical advice for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Abnormal Liver Function
After infection with the hepatitis C virus, liver cells may be damaged, triggering an inflammatory response and impairing liver function. Patients may experience elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, along with abnormal increases in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). This indicates liver damage caused by the hepatitis C virus. Without antiviral treatment, the damage may progressively worsen, leading to increasingly severe liver dysfunction. Patients can take entecavir tablets, ribavirin tablets, or other medications as directed by their physician.
2. Chronic Hepatitis C
Persistent presence of the hepatitis C virus in the body may lead to chronic hepatitis C, which can cause liver inflammation, fibrosis, and other forms of liver damage. Patients may take Fuzheng Huayu capsules, Anluo Huaxian pills, or other medications as prescribed.
3. Severe Ascites Formation
Hepatitis C virus infection may also cause liver inflammation, leading to hepatocyte edema and necrosis, resulting in ascites. Without antiviral treatment, ascites may worsen and, in severe cases, become life-threatening. Patients should follow medical advice and use spironolactone tablets, furosemide tablets, or other medications for treatment.
4. Cirrhosis
If hepatitis C is not treated with antiviral therapy and the condition remains uncontrolled over a long period, it may progress to cirrhosis. Patients can take compound glycyrrhizin tablets, vitamin C tablets, or other medications as directed by their doctor.
5. Liver Cancer
Hepatitis C is a major risk factor for liver cancer. Without antiviral treatment, the hepatitis C virus replicates in the liver, damaging hepatocytes and increasing the likelihood of malignant transformation, thereby raising the risk of liver cancer. Patients may use compound fluorouracil oral solution, Huachansu capsules, or other medications as prescribed.
In addition, complications such as hepatic encephalopathy and liver failure may also occur. If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, they should seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
