Disease progression
How does Hep C progress to damage the liver?
Hepatitis C progresses very slowly and has four stages although
not everyone will progress to the later stages listed below:
What do these stages mean?
When the virus first enters the body, you are referred to as
having an 'Acute Hepatitis C infection'.
There is a 1 in 5 chance your body will get rid of the virus by
itself during this early stage of infection.
However, if you still have Hepatitis C after 6 months, you have
then progressed to a 'Chronic Hepatitis C
infection' which will be long term.
Over time, the virus attacks the liver cells causing swelling which
can lead to the appearance of scar tissue that is called Fibrosis.
Scar tissue gradually builds up, becoming permanent, and the liver
becomes harder in texture. This hardening is referred to as
Cirrhosis. There is an increased risk of liver cancer in those who have
developed cirrhosis
Hardening of the liver affects its ability to function. The
liver is an amazing organ, and can repair or compensate for a lot
of damage. However, once it can no longer carry out its functions,
the liver is said to be Decompensated.