What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your Hepatitis C antibody result means and whether any viral RNA was detected. These notes include personalized recommendations on next steps, which may include lifestyle changes to protect your liver, guidance on preventing transmission, or when to follow up with a hepatologist or infectious disease specialist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your results over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful if you're monitoring treatment or need regular screening.

When will I get my results?

Most Hepatitis C antibody results are available within 1-2 business days. If the antibody test is positive and reflexes to the quantitative RNA PCR test, full results may take 3-5 business days. You'll receive an email notification as soon as your results are ready to view in your secure online account.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone born between 1945 and 1965, as CDC guidelines recommend one-time screening for this age group. You should also consider testing if you've ever injected drugs, received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, are on long-term hemodialysis, have HIV, or were exposed to someone with Hepatitis C. Healthcare workers with needle stick injuries and people with unexplained liver problems should also get tested.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Many people with Hepatitis C have no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may include persistent fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or abdominal pain near the liver area. However, these symptoms often don't appear until significant liver damage has occurred, so testing based on risk factors rather than waiting for symptoms is crucial.

How can I protect my liver health naturally?

Supporting liver health involves avoiding alcohol completely if you have Hepatitis C, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Stay hydrated, limit processed foods and added sugars, and avoid medications that can stress the liver unless prescribed by your doctor. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding exposure to toxins or chemicals also help protect your liver function.

What is Hepatitis C and why does it matter?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can lead to serious complications like cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if left untreated. The good news is that modern antiviral treatments can cure Hepatitis C in most people within 8-12 weeks. Early detection through testing is crucial because many people don't know they're infected, and treating the virus before significant liver damage occurs leads to better outcomes and prevents transmission to others.

What does a positive Hepatitis C antibody result mean?

A positive antibody result means your immune system has been exposed to Hepatitis C at some point, but it doesn't tell you if you currently have an active infection. About 15-25% of people clear the virus naturally without treatment. That's why this test includes a reflex to RNA testing, which determines if the virus is still present in your bloodstream. If the RNA test is positive, you have an active infection that may need treatment.

How often should I retest for Hepatitis C?

If you test negative but continue to have risk factors like injection drug use or multiple sexual partners, consider retesting annually. If you had a potential exposure, your doctor may recommend retesting at 3 and 6 months, as antibodies can take several weeks to months to appear after infection. If you're being treated for Hepatitis C, your healthcare provider will monitor your viral load regularly during and after treatment to confirm the virus has been cleared.