Discharge Instructions for Hepatitis C

You have been diagnosed with hepatitis C. This is an inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection. Hepatitis C can get worse and damage your liver without your knowing it. Stay in regular contact with your healthcare provider and healthcare team. They can watch your condition and monitor for any complications. In addition, there are now very good treatments for hepatitis C. Here's what you can do to stay healthier and prevent its spread.

Home care

• Avoid putting stress on your liver:

  • Don’t drink alcohol. Alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing cirrhosis.

  • Ask your healthcare provider about which medicines, including over-the-counter ones, you should not take.

  • Lose weight if you are overweight, especially if your medical tests showed that you have a fatty liver.

• Eat a balanced diet. 

• Take medicines prescribed by your healthcare provider to try to get rid of the virus:

  • To help your liver work better, you may be given specific medicines.

  • In some cases, you will also take ribavirin (antiviral medicine) by mouth twice a day.

  • It is extremely important that you are compliant with the prescribed medicines. If you have any questions about how to take the medicines, call your healthcare provider to clarify. 

Prevention

Tips to prevent spreading hepatitis C:

• Cover all skin breaks and sores by yourself. If you need help, the person treating you should wear latex gloves.

• Use condoms during sex if you have multiple sexual partners.

• Don’t donate blood, plasma, sperm, body organs, or other body tissue.

• Don’t share needles.

• Don’t share razors, toothbrushes, manicure tools, or other personal items.

Follow-up care

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.