People with hepatitis C (Hep C) experience inflammation of the liver that harms the cells of the organ. Few may have the disease for a short period, such as around six months, while others may have it for a long time. The former is called acute hepatitis C, while the latter is called chronic hepatitis C. In the later stages, hepatitis C causes more severe symptoms, which should be identified and actively managed at the earliest, lest it turns fatal. Here are few signs of hepatitis C, along with management tips for the condition.

Acute hepatitis C signs

Exposure to the condition might cause a mild illness which one may recover from in a few months. This is an acute form that can indicate signs like pain in the joints and stomach. Patients may also feel tired due to fever and nausea. Jaundice, a condition where one’s skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow, is also a common symptom. In some cases, patients may experience a loss of appetite as well. This disease may take anywhere from a month to five or six months to treat. Even in acute hepatitis C, people may be chronic carriers of the disease. This means that although they recover, they don’t completely rid themselves of the virus and can pass it on to others.

Chronic hepatitis C signs

Chronic carriers of hepatitis C are susceptible to the risk of chronic liver disease, which can severely damage the organ. In chronic hepatitis C, people may notice a combination of several signs, and management may be even more difficult. Muscle weakness, joint pain, and skin irritation may occur together. Individuals may feel unwell often without any particular reason. Serious complications can also harm the brain and kidney. In a few cases, people might develop cirrhosis that scars liver tissues. This can also eventually cause liver cancer. It is thus important to pay heed to one’s body to notice red flags and signs of chronic hepatitis C.

Managing symptoms of hepatitis C

Signs of hepatitis C may improve with few proactive measures, and you can begin with these two essential management tips.

• Follow a healthy diet

Eat vegetables and fruits that have a good amount of vitamins, folic acid, and fiber. This will not only aid liver function, but also boost the immune system. Including protein in one’s diet is essential too. Protein replaces and also repairs liver cells that are affected by hepatitis C. Fish, chicken and eggs are good sources of protein. For vegetarians, dairy products like fresh cheese, yoghurt and milk can also meet protein requirements.

• Exercise

Regular exercise can help one maintain their weight. Weight management is important for patients with hepatitis C as it can reduce the risk of the complication, hepatic steatosis. It is a condition of excess fat accumulation in the liver. Consult a doctor and try to plan a set of aerobic activities of moderate-intensity. Around 30 minutes of daily exercise can help decrease body fat and manage hepatitis C symptoms.