What to expect if I have Hepatitis C  (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Chronic hepatitis C is a serious disease that can result in long-term health problems, including liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, or even death.
It is the leading cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplantation in the United States. Approximately 8,000–10,000 people die every year from hepatitis C related liver disease.
Of every 100 people infected with the hepatitis C virus, about:
75–85 people will develop chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Of those: 60–70 people will go on to develop chronic liver disease 5–20 people will go on to develop cirrhosis over a period of 20–30 years 1–5 people will die from cirrhosis or liver cancer
Some people who have hepatitis C choose to make changes to their lives, such as reducing alcohol intake, maintaining a well balanced diet that is low in fat and considering overall health maintenance.
You should also:
Consult your doctor who will monitor your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist. Consider being immunized against other hepatitis viruses for which there are vaccines (ie hepatitis A and hepatitis B) Completely cover any cut or wound with a waterproof dressing
If you have hepatitis C you should not:
share injecting equipment donate blood or body organs share personal items such as toothbrushes or razors
Although there is no legal obligation to do so, you may wish to discuss your condition with your health care provider (doctor, dentist, naturopath) for optimal health care. </s>