The liver is one of the body’s vital organs responsible for filtering and removing toxins. However, this organ can become inflamed, which over time may cause scarring and severe damage known as cirrhosis.

Even though the liver has the ability to heal itself, extensive damage can lead to end-stage liver disease, liver cancer, or even liver failure. One of the conditions that can trigger cirrhosis is hepatitis C. So, how does hepatitis C develop into cirrhosis?

What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis C occurs when the liver is infected with the hepatitis C virus.

This infection spreads primarily through contact with infected blood, for instance, from blood transfusions or sharing needles. Transmission can also happen through unprotected sexual activity.

People with hepatitis C often do not show noticeable symptoms. In many cases, symptoms only appear once liver damage has become advanced. Without proper treatment, hepatitis C can progress and cause serious liver complications.

How Hepatitis C Leads to Liver Cirrhosis

According to Medical News Today, hepatitis C is among the main causes of cirrhosis, a condition where the liver becomes scarred and damaged. This occurs because ongoing exposure to the hepatitis C virus slowly injures the liver.

One of the challenges is that hepatitis C usually develops silently. Many people do not realize they are infected, leaving the disease untreated.

For many individuals, the infection becomes chronic after the initial exposure. Chronic hepatitis C gradually triggers liver inflammation and tissue damage. Healthline reports that this process can take 20–30 years before being detected.

When a person is first infected with the virus, mild symptoms may appear, and sometimes the body manages to fight off the virus. But in other cases, hepatitis C persists and turns chronic.

Persistent infection causes scar tissue, also known as fibrosis, to develop. Over time, this scarring advances into cirrhosis, which disrupts blood flow through the liver and limits its ability to function properly. If left untreated, cirrhosis can cause extensive liver damage and eventually lead to liver failure.

Other Causes of Cirrhosis Beyond Hepatitis C

In addition to hepatitis C, there are several other factors that may worsen cirrhosis of the liver, including:

• Frequent alcohol consumption

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

• Previous history of hepatitis infection

• Long-term use of immunosuppressant drugs

• Type 2 diabetes

If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to consult a doctor promptly to check the health of your liver.

Managing Hepatitis C and Cirrhosis

People diagnosed with hepatitis C and cirrhosis should seek medical care as soon as possible to reduce the risk of further liver damage.

Doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs to help fight the hepatitis C virus. In severe cases, a liver transplant might be recommended.

Besides medical treatment, patients are also advised to protect their liver health by maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol altogether.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!