Hepatology — Practical Liver Health and Hepatitis Guides

Your liver works nonstop to clean your blood, digest food and store energy. Problems can sneak up slow, but many are avoidable and treatable if found early. This page gathers clear, useful info on common liver issues, tests you can ask for, and simple steps to protect your liver every day.

You'll find a focused guide on Genotype 3 chronic hepatitis C that explains how the virus spreads and what prevention looks like. Genotype 3 has been harder to treat in the past, but modern direct antiviral drugs can cure most people. The guide explains transmission routes such as unprotected sex with infected partners, sharing needles, unsafe tattoos, and untested blood products. It also lists practical prevention tips you can use right away.

Prevention: simple, everyday steps

Vaccines matter - get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B if you are not immune. Avoid sharing needles, razors or toothbrushes. Use condoms with new or untested partners. Choose licensed studios for tattoos and piercings. Cut down on alcohol and maintain a healthy weight to lower fatty liver risk. Read medicine labels and talk to your doctor before taking supplements; some can harm the liver.

Symptoms, testing and treatment

Many liver conditions produce vague symptoms like tiredness, stomach pain, or yellowing skin and eyes. If you notice persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, dark urine, or unexplained bruising, see a healthcare provider. Basic blood tests check liver enzymes (AST, ALT), bilirubin and viral markers. If infection is suspected, an RNA test confirms active hepatitis C. Fibrosis can be checked with imaging tools such as FibroScan or with blood score panels.

Treatments now are simpler than before. Direct acting antivirals cure most hepatitis C infections across genotypes with short courses and fewer side effects. Treatment choice depends on genotype, liver scarring and other health issues. For non-viral liver disease, lifestyle changes, weight loss, and targeted medicines help manage the condition. Regular follow up matters - even after treatment, some people need ongoing liver checks.

Typical antiviral courses last eight to twelve weeks, and doctors check the viral load about three months after finishing treatment to confirm a cure. Tell your clinician about other drugs and supplements before starting therapy - some common medicines can interfere with antivirals. If you have cirrhosis or other health problems, treatment plans change and follow up is more frequent. Pregnant people and those planning pregnancy should discuss timing, as some treatments are not tested in pregnancy. For long term liver health, avoid heavy drinking, keep blood sugar and cholesterol in range, and get screened for liver cancer if you have advanced scarring. Small changes add up and make a difference.

Start with one step: get tested if you have risk factors or symptoms, and ask about hepatitis A and B vaccination. Read the Genotype 3 guide on this site for clear prevention advice and real-world tips for staying safe. Taking small, steady steps protects your liver and gives you more control over your health.