Though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone does regular screenings for hepatitis C, statistics show that many people don’t get tested. There are, however, several reasons for you to talk to your doctor about getting tested for Hepatitis C.
10 Reasons To Get Tested
1. A Regular Blood Test Yielded Strange Results
Technically, doctors may call this a deranged blood test result. This categorization simply means that a blood test that was conducted during a regular check-up suggests something else is wrong. That isn’t a definitive diagnosis of hepatitis C, so your doctor will likely suggest further testing.
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2. You Got A Recent Piercing Or Tattoo
It doesn’t happen often but tattoo and piercing equipment can be infected with the hepatitis virus because they pierce the skin. While you should always ask how tattoo artists and piercers clean their equipment, it’s a good idea to get tested as well.
3. Your Job Puts You At Risk
If you’re a medical professional or a caregiver for someone who has Hepatitis C, you have an increased risk of being exposed to the virus. Though you should take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from bloodborne diseases, getting tested regularly is important.
4. You Have Had An STI
Studies show that persons who have contracted sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more likely to get hepatitis C as well. If you’ve been treated for an STI, then getting tested is a good idea.
5. You Had A Blood Transfusion Recently
Blood used for transfusions is indeed tested thoroughly before being used. However, there is the rare occasion where the tests don’t detect the virus.
6. You’ve Shared Personal Items With Infected Persons
If you’re sharing your living accommodations with friends or loved ones who are infected with hepatitis C, you may have been exposed.
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7. You Have A History Of Using Injectable Drugs
This is the most common way for persons to contract the disease. In fact, almost 80 percent of new drug users get hepatitis C within a year of using. Even if you no longer do it, the virus could still be lurking in your system.
8. You Do Dialysis
Dialysis equipment is typically cleaned thoroughly. However, running your blood through a machine can introduce