
What are the aspects of harm caused by hepatitis C?
Disease description:
During a physical examination, my husband was diagnosed with hepatitis C. The doctor mentioned that a course of treatment is needed. Could you please explain what are the potential risks and complications associated with hepatitis C?

The hazards of hepatitis C are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1. **Highly insidious, prone to delayed diagnosis**: Symptoms of hepatitis C in the early stages are often not obvious, and many patients may remain asymptomatic for a long time, leading to overlooked conditions that can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer. This progression may occur more rapidly compared to hepatitis B.
2. **Highly contagious, difficult to prevent**: The hepatitis C virus is highly transmissible, primarily spreading through blood, sexual contact, and mother-to-child transmission. Currently, there is no effective vaccine available for hepatitis C prevention, making interruption of transmission routes and strict screening of blood donors key preventive measures.
3. **Severe complications**: If not treated promptly, hepatitis C not only affects liver function but can also lead to serious complications such as jaundice, pleural effusion, and hepatic encephalopathy, significantly reducing both the patient's quality of life and life expectancy.
The above points require heightened vigilance and emphasize the importance of prevention and treatment. If you have any concerns, please seek medical attention promptly.