Treatment Options for Hepatitis C
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No Treatment
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Treatment may not be necessary if the hepatitis C virus hasn't infected the bloodstream, a biopsy shows no liver damage, or the amount of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase isn't elevated in the bloodstream.
Drug Therapy
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A regimen incorporating weekly shots of pegylated interferon alfa and ribavirin taken orally twice a day may help remove hepatitis C from the bloodstream. The therapy typically lasts from six to 12 months and can be repeated if the virus remains.
Immunization
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Hepatitis A and B can make treating hepatitis C more difficult. Consequently, immunization against the first two viruses is frequently part of the treatment for hepatitis C.
Lifestyle
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Lifestyle changes that may help decrease the impact of hepatitis C include avoiding alcohol and drugs that damage the liver, eating a nutritious diet, exercising, getting adequate sleep and minimizing others' exposure to your blood.
Liver Transplant
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End-stage liver disease is a major complication of hepatitis C infection. When it occurs, a liver transplant is usually the recommended treatment.
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