Save A Life Recovery & Recovery Center
Hepatitis C Education & Information
Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by a virus that spreads through blood-to-blood contact. It can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic), and many people don’t know they have it because symptoms can take years to appear.
How is Hep C spread?
Hep C is spread through contact with infected blood. Common ways include:
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Sharing needles or injection equipment
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Non-sterile tattoo or piercing equipment
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Blood transfusions or medical procedures (before 1992 in the U.S.)
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Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes (rare, but possible)
Hep C is not spread through:
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Hugging, kissing, or casual contact
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Sharing food or drinks
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Coughing or sneezing
Signs & Symptoms
Many people have no symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
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Fatigue
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Nausea or loss of appetite
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Dark urine
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Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
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Abdominal pain
💊 Treatment & Cure
Hep C is curable.
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Modern medications can cure over 95% of cases
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Treatment is usually 8–12 weeks
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Many people experience little to no side effects
Getting treated not only protects your health—but also prevents transmission to others.
🛡️ Prevention Tips
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Never share needles or drug use equipment
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Use sterile supplies every time
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Avoid sharing personal hygiene items
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Make sure tattoos and piercings are done with sterile equipment
❤️ You Are Not Alone
Hep C can affect anyone. There is no shame in getting tested or seeking treatment.
At Save A Life Recovery Resource Center, we are here to:
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Provide education and support
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Offer testing or connect you to testing
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Help you access treatment and next steps