Hepatitis C — treatment in Lahore
Also known as: HCV · Hepatitis C Infection · Chronic Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Modern direct-acting antiviral therapy now cures over 95% of patients within 8–12 weeks of treatment.
Dr Usman is certified in Hepatitis C Management by the Royal College of Physicians.
Overview
Modern direct-acting antivirals have transformed Hepatitis C from a chronic illness to a curable one. We test, stage, and treat — and follow up to confirm sustained virologic response.
Signs & symptoms of Hepatitis C
If you recognize one or more of these, it may be worth a consultation:
- Most patients are asymptomatic until late
- Fatigue, mild discomfort
- Often detected during screening or for liver enzyme elevation
Causes & risk factors
Several factors can contribute to Hepatitis C. Identifying yours guides the treatment plan.
- Unsafe medical injections — a leading cause in Pakistan
- Reused or shared syringes
- Blood transfusions before universal screening
- Tattoos, piercings, dental work in unregulated settings
- Sharing razors or toothbrushes
- Less commonly: mother-to-child or sexual transmission
How Hepatitis C is diagnosed
We order tests selectively — only what changes the plan.
- Anti-HCV antibody → HCV RNA
- Liver enzymes, FibroScan
- Genotyping in selected cases
Treatment options
Treatment for Hepatitis C is personalized — the right plan depends on your symptoms, test results, and life situation.
- 1 Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) — sofosbuvir-based combinations, 8–12 weeks
- 2 Sustained virologic response (SVR12) confirms cure
- 3 FibroScan or APRI for fibrosis staging before treatment
- 4 Family and household member screening
Hepatitis C is now a curable disease. Cure rates exceed 95% with current direct-acting antivirals. Once cured, the virus is gone permanently, and liver healing begins immediately — though existing cirrhosis still requires ongoing surveillance.
Can Hepatitis C be prevented?
Simple, evidence-based steps that reduce your risk.
- Insist on single-use, sealed needles for any injection
- Sterilized barber and dental equipment
- Avoid shared razors and toothbrushes
- No vaccine yet exists — early treatment prevents transmission
When should you see a doctor about Hepatitis C?
Reach out without delay if you notice any of the following.
- Positive anti-HCV test
- Elevated liver enzymes on routine bloodwork
- Family member newly diagnosed
- Pakistan-resident with any prior medical or surgical exposure — testing is reasonable for everyone
Frequently asked questions about Hepatitis C
Is Hepatitis C really curable? +
Yes. Direct-acting antivirals cure over 95% of patients in 8–12 weeks. Cure means the virus is permanently eliminated from your body — confirmed by an undetectable HCV RNA 12 weeks after treatment ends.
How is Hepatitis C different from Hepatitis B? +
Both attack the liver but are different viruses. Hep B has a vaccine but no curative therapy; Hep C has no vaccine but is now curable with antivirals. Both can cause cirrhosis if untreated.
How did I get Hepatitis C in Pakistan? +
The most common routes are unsafe injections (re-used needles, contaminated dental equipment, shared razors at barbers). Many patients with Hep C in Pakistan cannot recall a single high-risk event because exposures are often medical and routine.
Can my family catch Hepatitis C from me? +
Hepatitis C is bloodborne, not casual-contact. Eating together, sharing a home, hugging — all safe. Risk comes only from blood-to-blood contact: shared razors, toothbrushes, needles, or unsterilized procedures.
Do I need a biopsy before treatment? +
No. Modern non-invasive tests (FibroScan, APRI, FIB-4) stage liver fibrosis well enough to plan treatment. Biopsy is rarely needed for routine Hep C management today.
Related services
How we treat Hepatitis C at Javaid Poly Clinic.
Useful self-check tools
Free, evidence-based — try them before your visit.
Dr Usman Javaid
Gastroenterology & Medicine Diplomat · DIP (Gastro) UK · DIP (Hepatology) UK · DIP (Diabetes) UK · MCPS FM-TC · MPH · FRSPH (UK) · FRCP (Colombo) · Organ Transplant Advisor · CHPE (NUMS) · Preventive Medicine Specialist · Owner of Javaid Poly Clinic.
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Usman Javaid on . Content is updated when new evidence or guidelines emerge.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical consultation. If you have symptoms of Hepatitis C or any other condition, please book a consultation. In emergencies, call 1122 or visit your nearest emergency department.