It often happens that the information we hear about a certain disease is not reliable enough, which gives rise to many myths. For example, one of the most popular myths is that hepatitis C is incurable. Often this delusion kills a person. Consider the most popular myths about hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C easily transmits by household contact.
It is worth remembering that this virus falls the body mainly through the blood, so it is almost impossible to become infected by embracing the patient or shaking hands. But, you should not use the personal hygiene items of someone with hepatitis C virus, such as a toothbrush or razor. This not only violates hygiene standards, but also increases the likelihood of contracting the virus.
Hepatitis C is not treatable.
Treatment is long and expensive, but the chance of recovery is from 80 to 90%, and in some cases even 100%. The main thing is to ask for help in time.
The chances of being cured are low, so it makes no sense to be treated.
This is not the case, because, as mentioned above, the chances of recovery are quite high. It is also known that treatment can improve liver health, even when the virus is still in the body.
During the treatment of hepatitis C it is almost impossible to maintain a normal lifestyle.
Many people think that during the treatment of hepatitis C it is necessary to stay in the hospital or spend most of the time there. This misconception is widespread among the population, as previously used drugs for the treatment of hepatitis C had many pronounced side effects, so medical staff had to constantly monitor patients. In fact, this is not the case now, because modern drugs can be taken at home and only once or twice a month to see a doctor. A list of safe and effective drugs for the treatment of hepatitis C can be found here.
Side effects will force you to stop treatment.
As a rule, the side effects that occur during treatment are mild and rare. These can include headache, tired feeling, decrease in appetite, problems sleeping properly, itchy feeling. As a rule, symptoms are the standard reaction of the body to treatment, but they easily tolerate, and patients stop experiencing these symptoms after a week of treatment.
Only people who use drugs are sick with hepatitis C.
Indeed, this is the main risk group, but not only socially disadvantaged segments of the population can become infected with this virus. A person can become infected in the nail salon, where the sterilization of instruments is neglected. A person may also be at risk of contracting hepatitis C at a tattoo parlor or dental clinic.
You can get hepatitis C by eating contaminated food and drink.
Hepatitis C infection occurs through contact with infected blood or during unprotected sex.
Most importantly, you should always turn in time to a specialist who will tell you what hepatitis C really is.