1. 1. Order Your Tests

    Browse from hundreds of tests and select the ones you want.

  2. 2. Visit a Lab

    Visit a lab near you at your convenience; no appointment time necessary.

  3. 3. Get Your Results

    Physician-reviewed lab results are available online within 24-72 hours.

Hepatitis C Test

The vast majority (around 80%) of people who contract hepatitis C will show no symptoms, so the only way to know for sure if you’re infected is to take a reliable Hepatitis C Test.

$59
Order Test
Test Preparation:
None
Testing Method:
Blood draw

The vast majority (around 80%) of people who contract hepatitis C will show no symptoms, so the only way to know for sure if you’re infected is to take a reliable Hepatitis C Test. An inflammation of the liver, hepatitis C transmitted through the transfer of infected blood. Compared to hepatitis A and B, hepatitis C is not contracted as frequently through sexual contact, though safe practices are encouraged to minimize your chances of contracting the virus. Unlike hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C. The incubation period for hepatitis C is between two weeks and six months, so in order to get an accurate reading, you’ll want to wait this duration before your test. If left untreated, hepatitis C can cause serious damage to the liver, but this Hepatitis C Test can help prevent such progression.

How Does Our Hepatitis C Test Work?

A Hepatitis C Test at Priority Lab Testing is an easy process. You can go to a lab for testing in just a few steps without waiting for a doctor’s appointment or referral. Add the Hepatitis C test to your cart and any other lab testing you need; after you complete your purchase, head over to our find a lab page where you can enter your zip code and see all the locations and hours available in your area.

When you are ready, all you need is to show up at your chosen lab location and provide the staff with your name. In a matter of minutes, you will have your blood sample taken by a professional and knowledgeable team member and sent for analysis. You will receive your confidential results within 24-72 hours of your test.

Symptoms of a Potential Hepatitis C Infection

Hepatitis C1 does not usually present itself in an obvious or sudden manner. Many people can live with the Hepatitis C virus for years until serious liver complications and damage appear. Anyone can contract Hepatitis C as there is no vaccine for this infectious disease. However, individuals that engage in certain high-risk behavior, individuals with certain medical conditions, healthcare workers or some recipients of blood transfusions.

Some common warning signs of a Hepatitis C infection may include:

  • Frequent bruising and/or bleeding
  • Feeling tired
  • Having little to no appetite
  • Skin itchiness and discomfort
  • Jaundice
  • Unexplained weight loss

How to Interpret the Results of Your Hepatitis C Test?

When your test results for Hepatitis C are ready for viewing, an explanation of what to expect can help you understand your results. For example, a positive result or abnormal finding indicates that the test found Hepatitis C in your bloodstream. If there are no abnormalities, you will receive a negative result that shows there is no active Hepatitis C infection.  

It is essential to keep in mind that Hepatitis C can take anywhere from weeks to months of incubation before showing positive on a blood test; depending on when you believe you may have been exposed, you may need to repeat the test again soon to ensure you are clear from having contracted the infection.

Hepatitis C Test versus Hepatitis B Test

There are various hepatitis viruses, and the test you purchase can affect which type you are testing yourself for. The Hepatitis C Test, for example, will only analyze your blood for indications of a Hepatitis C infection. Hepatitis B is a common type of Hepatitis similar to a Hepatitis C infection; if you believe you have symptoms of Hepatitis or were exposed, it may be beneficial to undergo both lab tests.

FAQs

  • Hepatitis C can be problematic because it may not show symptoms or become a problem for an individual for quite some time. However, this does not mean it is not causing you harm. An untreated Hepatitis C infection can cause serious and, in some cases, irreparable damage to your liver over time. If you test positive for Hepatitis C, it is worth looking further into your health and the impacts of the virus to avoid preventable complications.

  • If you receive a positive Hepatitis C test result, you should consult with your doctor to decide on the next steps necessary to protect your health. A doctor can investigate whether the infection has run its course or whether you will need treatment to clear the virus and prevent future damage.

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/hcvfaq.htm#section2