1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Hepatitis C

At GastroDoxs in Houston, our specialized Hepatitis C screening and treatment services combine therapies with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive support and expert guidance throughout their recovery journey in the local community, helping them regain health and peace of mind.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus. It can present as an acute (short-term) illness, coded B17.1 in ICD-10, or progress to chronic (long-term) infection, coded B18.2 after six months. Early diagnosis and treatment help protect your liver health.

Common Symptoms

Many people don't notice symptoms at first. When signs do appear, they may include:

  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Mild fever
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Dark urine and pale stools
  • Stomach pain or nausea
  • In females: irregular menstrual cycles and joint pain

Causes

Hepatitis C is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Common causes include:

  • Sharing needles or syringes
  • Blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1992
  • Use of unsterile medical, dental or tattoo/piercing equipment
  • Tattoos or body piercings with contaminated tools
  • Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth
Treatment

Treatment Options for Hepatitis C in Houston

Treatment includes modern antiviral therapy and supportive liver care:

  • Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs): Oral medications taken for 8-12 weeks with cure rates above 95%.
  • Viral load monitoring: Regular blood tests to track HCV RNA levels and assess treatment response.
  • Liver function tests: Periodic ALT and AST checks to monitor liver inflammation and recovery.
  • Diet and nutrition: Balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support liver health.
  • Lifestyle modifications: Avoid alcohol, stay hydrated, and get adequate rest.
  • Self-care support: Education on medication adherence, stress management, and healthy habits.
  • Follow-up care: Post-treatment evaluations to confirm sustained virologic response (SVR) and long-term liver health.

Consult Our Specialists in Houston

Ready to take charge of your liver health? Trust GastroDoxs for expert care. Book an Appointment Today!

1.3K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.3K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hepatitis C ICD-10?

The ICD-10 code for acute hepatitis C infection is B17.1, and for chronic hepatitis C infection (lasting more than six months) it is B18.2.

How is hepatitis C transmitted?

Hepatitis C is spread through blood-to-blood contact, most commonly via sharing needles or syringes, contaminated medical equipment, or blood transfusions performed before 1992.

What is the ICD-10 code for hepatitis C?

Use code B17.1 for an acute hepatitis C infection and code B18.2 for a chronic hepatitis C infection that persists beyond six months.

What defines chronic hepatitis C in ICD-10?

Chronic hepatitis C is diagnosed when the infection lasts longer than six months. The corresponding ICD-10 code for chronic cases is B18.2.

What is the difference between hepatitis B vs C?

Hepatitis B is more easily transmitted through sexual contact and perinatal exposure, while hepatitis C is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact.

What are hepatitis C symptoms in females?

Women with hepatitis C may experience fatigue, irregular menstrual periods, joint pain, as well as the general symptoms seen in all patients, such as jaundice and abdominal discomfort.

How can I prevent hepatitis A, B, and C transmission?

Prevention includes avoiding the sharing of needles or syringes, ensuring all medical and tattoo equipment is sterile, practicing safe sex, and getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B.

What self-care steps help with hepatitis C recovery?

Support your liver health by resting, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and following your healthcare provider's recommendations for medication and monitoring.

Where can I find a gastroenterologist in Houston?

GastroDoxs offers experienced gastroenterologists in Houston who specialize in liver health and hepatitis C diagnosis and treatment. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

How can I consult a hepatitis C specialist near Houston?

Call GastroDoxs to request a fast referral to one of our dedicated hepatitis C specialists serving the Houston area.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

All About Liver Elastography

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Gas Pain vs Gallstones: How to Tell the Difference

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Bowel Movements: What's Normal and What's Not?

Read More