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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Prognosis Of Hepatitis C Infection?

I was diagnosed about 15 years ago with hep c.i was just wondering how long before it turns into something that will eventually kill me.im 46 and have a 11 year old as well as a 12 yearold. Aisoi wondering what some of the later symptoms may be. THANK YOU
Tue, 17 Apr 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

Hepatitis C has a natural history as follows. About 80% patients continue with chronic hepatitis C, which then progresses to fibrosis and eventual cirrhosis. Now, only 2 to 6% of people with cirrhosis per annum convert to hepatocellular carcinoma.

The rate of moving through this is highly variable and not something that everyone will go through, as I mentioned with the stats. You should not worry yourself over this.

Go for regular checkups, eat healthy, exercise regularly. If things do start to go bad, there will be an alteration in your liver function tests, you may start having abdominal distention and swelling of your feet.

I would like to reinforce, that you should not live in constant fear of the same. Careful vigilance is all that is needed.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Pranav Balakrishnan
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What Is The Prognosis Of Hepatitis C Infection?

Hello, Hepatitis C has a natural history as follows. About 80% patients continue with chronic hepatitis C, which then progresses to fibrosis and eventual cirrhosis. Now, only 2 to 6% of people with cirrhosis per annum convert to hepatocellular carcinoma. The rate of moving through this is highly variable and not something that everyone will go through, as I mentioned with the stats. You should not worry yourself over this. Go for regular checkups, eat healthy, exercise regularly. If things do start to go bad, there will be an alteration in your liver function tests, you may start having abdominal distention and swelling of your feet. I would like to reinforce, that you should not live in constant fear of the same. Careful vigilance is all that is needed. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Pranav Balakrishnan