Hepatitis C can be difficult to diagnose, as it does not show any symptoms in most cases. The virus can affect one’s body without manifesting any signs, and the disease is only diagnosed when a routine blood test reveals liver enzyme issues. The following is a list of the rare symptoms of Hepatitis C that one should be aware of:

Early signs of acute hepatitis C
When the virus enters the body and starts affecting the liver, the stage is called acute hepatitis C. The most challenging part about this stage is that it does not manifest any symptoms. Even if there are signs, they are most often confused with the symptoms of the flu. The virus may cause the stomach to hurt, which is easy to ignore as belly aches are extremely common. Also, one’s stool may resemble the color of clay, and their urine may be dark-colored if they are developing hepatitis C.

Fatigue and fever are some rare symptoms of Hepatitis C, but they can also be the signs of flu or other common health conditions. So, one may not even suspect hepatitis C in such cases. One should, however, be mindful of their eyes and skin appearing yellowish, which indicates jaundice caused as a result of hepatitis C.

Other than these, patients may experience joint pain and poor appetite. If the liver is damaged due to hepatitis C, one may even feel nauseated and often end up vomiting after eating. However, even these symptoms may take up to 12 weeks to show after the virus has entered the body.

The symptoms of chronic hepatitis C
If acute hepatitis C is not diagnosed in time and remains untreated for years, it becomes chronic. This is an advanced stage and may even lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. When hepatitis C reaches an advanced stage, certain signs help one recognize the disease. Fluids start building up in one’s belly, which is a condition known as ascites. One may also start bleeding easily or develop unexplained bruises. At this stage, one may be diagnosed with hepatic encephalopathy, which leads to confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Some other rare symptoms of Hepatitis C in the chronic stage are rashes, itchy skin, spidery blood vessels, swollen legs, and weight loss.

Symptoms of cirrhosis
Untreated hepatitis C leads to cirrhosis, which is a condition caused by liver scarring. However, this may take 20 to 30 years to develop. Its symptoms may include easy bruising and bleeding, water retention, and jaundice.

As the rare symptoms of Hepatitis C are not easy to recognize, it is advisable to go for regular medical check-ups to facilitate early diagnosis. Also, if one notices any symptoms, they should contact a doctor immediately.