what is the virus that causes hepititus c?

Answer 1

HEPATITIS C virus (HCV; Non-A, Non-B Hepatitis)

Hepatitis C virus is one of the viruses that causes hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver. It is spread predominantly by contact with infected blood and much less commonly, body fluids (sperm, vaginal secretions, pus, saliva, etc.) Risk factors for having HCV include those who have used IV drugs (e.g., those who have shared needles), those who have received a blood transfusion prior to 1991, those who have snorted cocaine*, and those who have been tattooed.

Unlike HBV, sexual transmission of HCV is very uncommon and is estimated to occur in less than 5% of those in monogamous relationships. That said, the risk of HCV is increased in those having multiple sexual partners and unprotected intercourse. There seems to be no increased risk of HCV in men who have sex with men. Therefore, while using a condom if having sexual relations is just plain smart, in terms of HCV infection, avoidance of exposure to infected blood (e.g., avoid sharing razor blades, toothbrushes, and bloody needles) is the most important method in avoiding infection.

Common Signs & Symptoms
Hepatitis C virus is one of many causes of swelling of the liver (hepatitis). The liver plays a crucial role in cleaning the blood and metabolizing different substances we ingest. When the liver isn't working correctly, "poisons" build up in the blood. In addition, the liver makes bile, and if it isn't released correctly, it builds up in the body causing a yellowing of the skin and eyes (called jaundice and icterus, respectively). People first infected with HCV commonly get mild flu-like symptoms with aches, fever, and chills. Following this flu-like illness, however, symptoms generally resolve for more than 2 decades! Though a number of people infected with Hepatitis C go on to remission, a much larger portion of infected individuals will have worsening liver disease and will get sicker years later. Those who are chronically infected are at a high risk of developing total liver failure (cirrhosis) and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), both of which can lead to death.

How's it Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by a blood test. Because people infected generally have NO SYMPTOMS for 20 or more years following infection, it is important to get a screening blood test if you have any risk factors for HCV infection. You should be tested specifically for the presence of HCV antibody if you have used IV drugs, received a blood transfusion prior to 1991, snorted cocaine, been tattooed, or had multiple sexual partners. While it is reasonable for the spouse or sexual partner of an HCV-infected person to be tested, other household members or coworkers do not have an increased risk of catching HCV. (Screening liver function tests are not adequate to test for this disease as they are commonly normal in infected individuals. A HCV antibody test is the recommended blood test.)

How's it Treated?
Exciting new treatments have recently been developed which can markedly improve the disease, and perhaps even cure, some people with Hepatitis C Virus. A combination of interferon and ribavirin (Rebetol) has been shown to be quite effective in a number of recent studies. Despite these recent successes, prevention of this disease is much preferred by avoiding risk factors.

How do I avoid Getting It (Prevention)?
Avoiding the risk behaviors mentioned previously is important (e.g., snorting cocaine, using IV drugs, and having unsafe sex with multiple partners).

Answer 2

It is just one of the family of hepatitis viruse (A,B, & C)
For a good discussion and much helpful advice on how to deal with hepatitis, see:
Dr Whitaker's Guide to Natural Healing
Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine
Prescription for Natural Cures
Let's Get Well - Adelle Davis
Digestive Wellness - Elizabeth Lipski

Answer 3

Its the hep C virus. The chinesse use star anise which is the same drug the major companies are using to fight the bird flu. It prevents the virus from copiying.

Answer 4

hepatitis C is caused by an RNA coded virus but im quite not sure if it is Flavivirus.

Answer 5

erinca has got it correct.

also, hcv is a flavivirus under it's own genius....

Answer 6

It has to do with a blood disorder I think

Answer 7

Variant of B.