Hepatitis C is a virus (HCV) that infects and injures the liver. It spreads through contact with infected blood and can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Without treatment, chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious liver damage. The ICD-10 code for chronic hepatitis C is B18.2.
Many people have no symptoms at first. When they appear, you might notice:
Hepatitis C infection occurs through blood-to-blood contact. Common routes include:
At GastroDoxs in Cypress, our Hepatitis C team delivers personalized, patient-focused care using the latest once-daily antiviral treatments-with over a 95% cure rate and minimal side effects. From accurate ICD-10 coding and expert diagnostics to ongoing support after your treatment, we're here to guide you at every step. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward a Hepatitis C-free future.
We've successfully treated more than 1.3K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
Common signs include persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and pale stools.
Early signs may include mild fever, abdominal discomfort, muscle or joint aches, and general malaise; however, many people remain asymptomatic for months or years.
Hepatitis C transmission through sex is possible but rare, occurring primarily when infected blood is exchanged during sexual activity.
Yes, but the risk is low. Sexual transmission typically requires blood-to-blood contact, such as during rough intercourse or when other STDs are present.
No. Unlike Hepatitis A and B, there is currently no vaccine available to prevent Hepatitis C infection.
Hepatitis A is spread by contaminated food or water and has a vaccine; Hepatitis B spreads through blood and body fluids and also has a vaccine; Hepatitis C is transmitted mostly through blood, often becomes chronic, and has no vaccine.
The ICD-10 code for acute Hepatitis C is B17.1; for chronic Hepatitis C, it is B18.2.
Men with Hepatitis C may experience abdominal pain or pressure, joint or ankle swelling, persistent fatigue, and other general symptoms like nausea or muscle aches.
Symptoms can appear anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months after infection, though some individuals may not show any symptoms for years.
GastroDoxs in Cypress offers specialized care for Hepatitis C-from testing and diagnosis to personalized treatment and follow-up. Book an appointment today to get started.
