A person infected with the hepatitis C virus infection will show different signs and symptoms based on the stage of infection. Some of the most common symptoms that a person would exhibit include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and fever. In this case, an individual who is at a more advanced stage of hep C will have liver failure, which could cause bleeding problems or severe confusion (encephalopathy).
In some cases, hepatitis C is also known to result in liver cancer, which can manifest itself in the form of a malnourished appearance.
A few rare symptoms associated with hepatitis C virus infection usually manifest themselves only in chronic or acute stages. These rare symptoms occur due to the liver’s dysfunction or the body responds with inflammation to the virus.
1. Weight loss
This is one symptom that can be the effect of various other symptoms associated with hep C infection. Fatigue, vomiting, or nausea can end up causing a diminished appetite and reduced food intake. The liver may become impaired and fail to produce sufficient proteins and fats required to digest and absorb the food eaten. Malnutrition can lead to diarrhea, even when a person tries to eat food.
2. Signs on skin
The individual may exhibit a burning sensation or a feeling of abnormal tingling. The skin may also feel itchy. There could be a presence of rashes that are raised or bumpy. Some individuals may have a pins and needles sensation resulting in high levels of discomfort.
3. Dryness
In some hepatitis C cases, there has been drying of eyes accompanied by drying of the mouth. This can be highly uncomfortable despite keeping oneself well hydrated.
4. Rheumatic diseases
Even before you have been diagnosed with hep C, you might end up exhibiting muscle aches and pains along with swelling of the joints. This is one symptom that can occur at any stage of infection and reflects the immune system that has been compromised due to fighting the virus persistently.
5. Vasculitis
This relates to the inflammation of the red blood vessels. This is very rare but could end up causing a range of other symptoms, including blood clots, pain, and even heart attack or stroke in some cases.
6. Cryoglobulinemia
Cryoglobulins are proteins present in the blood which get solidified when there is exposure to a colder temperature. This can end up clogging blood circulation.
In most cases, when a person has been exposed to hep C, there may not be any symptoms visible. The symptoms usually manifest themselves only at a chronic or acute stage. If you feel that you have been exposed to the virus, it is best to get a doctor’s consultation to ensure that you can treat the infection in time before it seeps into other health problems. Some of the symptoms associated with hep C, especially the rare ones, may not be evident initially. Getting a doctor’s consultation on time can go a long way in identifying hep C at an earlier stage.
