Some people with hepatitis C have symptoms soon after being infected, such as fever, fatigue or joint pain. But most people don't have any symptoms for years, until the virus starts to damage their liver. Even if you don't have symptoms, you should continue to see your doctor regularly so that he or she can monitor the virus, help you decide when to start treatment (if you haven't already) and watch for problems with your liver.
At your next appointment, tell your doctor:
- About any changes in your health since your last visit
- How often you feel really tired or fatigued
- How you feel overall (better or worse)
Call your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms, as these could be signs of liver damage:
- Nausea, abdominal pain, lack of appetite or weight loss
- Small, red spider-like blood vessels on your skin
- Swelling in your legs or abdomen
- Yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Bruising or bleeding easily
- Redness on the palms of your hands
- Impotence or other sexual problems
- Confusion that comes on suddenly
- Pale or clay-colored stools
