Hepatitis C: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Options & Diet Plan

By Dr. Muhammad Noaman Saeed Khattak, PhD Biotechnology, DHMS, RHP
Saeed International Hospital – G-8 Markaz, Islamabad
The Biogene Labs and Diagnostics
📞 Contact: 0331-1110675 | 🌐 www.saeedhospital.com

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). It can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer if not treated early. The virus spreads through blood-to-blood contact, often through contaminated needles, unsterilized equipment, or unsafe blood transfusions.

Common Causes of Hepatitis C

• Sharing needles or injecting drugs
• Blood transfusion before 1992
• Unsterile tattoo or piercing tools
• Using infected razors or toothbrushes
• From mother to child during birth (rare)
• Healthcare exposure to infected blood

Signs and Symptoms

Many patients don’t experience symptoms until the liver is significantly damaged. When symptoms appear, they may include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain in the right upper abdomen
• Dark urine, pale stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
• Joint pain and depression

Diagnosis

Hepatitis C is confirmed through:

• HCV Antibody Test
• HCV RNA (PCR) Test – confirms active virus
• Liver Function Test (LFTs)
• Ultrasound / FibroScan for liver health

Visit The Biogene Labs and Diagnostics, G-8 Markaz, Islamabad for complete Hepatitis C diagnostic testing with real-time PCR.

Treatment Options for Hepatitis C

1. Allopathic (Modern Medicine) Treatment

The primary treatment involves Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs):

• Sofosbuvir + Daclatasvir (most common combination)
• Harvoni (Ledipasvir + Sofosbuvir)
• Mavyret (Glecaprevir + Pibrentasvir)

✅ Cure rate over 95%
❗ Must be prescribed and monitored by a hepatologist

2. Homeopathic Treatment (Supportive Care)

Homeopathy helps in symptom relief, liver detox, and enhancing immunity during or post-treatment. Not a replacement for antivirals, but a supportive approach.

Top Homeopathic Remedies:

• Chelidonium Majus Q – for jaundice, liver inflammation
• Carduus Marianus Q – liver cleansing and cirrhosis
• Phosphorus 30 – fatigue, liver weakness
• Nux Vomica 30 – digestion, toxin overload
• Lycopodium 30 – bloating and liver pain

✅ Must be taken under qualified homeopathic supervision

Diet Plan for Hepatitis C Patients

A well-balanced liver-friendly diet boosts recovery, supports liver regeneration, and reduces inflammation.

🕐 Morning Breakfast (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM):

• 1 boiled egg or low-oil omelet
• 2 brown bread slices or oats porridge
• 1 glass lukewarm skimmed milk (no sugar)
• 2 dates or almonds

🕐 Mid-Morning Snack (11:00 AM):

• 1 apple or papaya
• Green tea or lemon water

🕐 Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM):

• 1 chapati (whole wheat/barley)
• Boiled lentils or vegetables (light oil/salt)
• Salad (cucumber, carrot, tomato)
• 1 glass buttermilk

🕐 Evening Snack (5:00 PM):

• 1 banana or apple
• Herbal or green tea

🕐 Dinner (8:00 PM):

• 1 bowl boiled vegetables or light dal
• 1 chapati
• Simple salad
• Plain yogurt (if no bloating)

Lifestyle & Prevention Tips

✅ Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and sugary carbonated drinks
✅ Drink 8–10 glasses of clean water daily
✅ Sleep early and reduce stress
✅ Exercise regularly (walk, yoga, etc.)
✅ Avoid self-medication and liver-toxic drugs
✅ Practice safe injection and hygiene
✅ Don’t share razors or personal hygiene items

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor immediately if:

• You test positive for Hepatitis C
• You have abnormal liver tests or jaundice
• You experience persistent fatigue or abdominal pain
• You completed HCV treatment and want to prevent relapse

Conclusion

Hepatitis C is treatable and manageable, especially if diagnosed early. Modern antiviral therapy, when combined with homeopathic support and a healthy lifestyle, gives excellent long-term outcomes.

If you or someone you know is living with Hepatitis C, get tested, follow the treatment plan, and take care of your liver naturally.

For Consultation, Diagnosis, and Complete Care:

🏥 Saeed International Hospital – G-8 Markaz, Islamabad
🧪 The Biogene Labs and Diagnostics – Near PSO Petrol Pump, G-8 Markaz
📞 Contact: 0331-1110675
🌐 Visit: www.saeedhospital.com