Hepatitis Testing near you in SW Charlotte – AFC Urgent Care Tyvola Rd

Are you concerned that you may have hepatitis? If so, head to AFC Urgent Care of Tyvola Rd for private hepatitis testing and treatment. We’re open 7 days a week, always welcoming walk-in patients.

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus or other external factors such as bacteria, alcohol, drugs and toxins. It is a contagious disease that can spread through contaminated food, blood and other bodily fluids. Here in the United States, the most prevalent viruses are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, although there are a total of five types of viruses. In its most severe form, hepatitis can lead to life-threatening complications such as liver failure, cirrhosis, jaundice and even death.

To prevent further spread, it is important to practice proper hygiene measures, get vaccinated and seek medical care if symptoms arise.

Typical symptoms of hepatitis include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Vomiting
• Pale Stool
• Dark Urine

If you experience any of these symptoms, get tested as soon as possible. Even if your results are negative, it’s good to know that your liver isn’t infected with hepatitis.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a serious infection caused by contact with traces of infected fecal matter on surfaces, food or drinks. This is particularly common in unhygienic areas. Some may begin to show symptoms shortly after contact, but many with hepatitis A may exhibit little to no symptoms for years. Fortunately, there is a vaccine available to prevent infection, but there is no medication to cure it.

Who is at risk for hepatitis A?

If you go to regions with high infection rates, be aware that you are more likely to come in contact with the hepatitis A virus. While in these areas, try to avoid drinking tap water and eating raw food, as these can increase your chances of infection. Daycare employees and students are also subject to high-risk exposure if proper sanitation is not maintained.

Hepatitis B

For most people, Hepatitis B is the leading cause of liver cancer. Unimmunized infants infected with the virus are particularly vulnerable, as more than 90% of them will go on to develop chronic liver issues for life. Hepatitis B can be transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen or vaginal fluid during sexual activity with an infected person. Fortunately, there is an effective vaccine to prevent the virus, although it cannot be cured.

Who is at risk for hepatitis B?

If you have numerous sexual partners without any form of protection, you’re at greater risk of contracting hepatitis B. Additionally, injecting illegal drugs into your body puts you at high risk. Healthcare personnel that are exposed to infected persons should always wear the necessary protective equipment to minimize the risk of exposure to and contact with hepatitis B.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is generally transmitted through traces of contaminated blood on non-sterile syringes and needles. This can occur in drug injection, a contaminated tattoo needle or transmission from an infected mother to her infant. Although this virus can be spread through sexual activity, the possibility is slim. Presently, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, though there are treatable options.

Who is at risk for hepatitis C?

If you have ever injected illicit drugs, you may be vulnerable to hepatitis C, even if no symptoms are present. Anyone with a blood transfusion prior to 1992, may be susceptible to this strain of hepatitis, as donors were not tested for it at that time.

Is hepatitis a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

Hepatitis is classified as an STD due to the fact that it is frequently transmitted during sexual intercourse. While all types of hepatitis are dangerous and transmissible, the most severe strain to spread during sexual intercourse is hepatitis B. This strain is spread through seminal and vaginal secretions, not simply blood or unclean objects as with other strains.
If you are sexually active, it is imperative to practice safe sex in order to prevent the spread or contraction of the virus, especially if you have multiple partners.

Learn more about STDs and STD Testing at AFC Urgent Care.

Get tested for hepatitis today at AFC Urgent Care in Charlotte, NC.

If you have any suspicions that you have contracted a form of hepatitis, please visit our walk-in clinic for a blood panel test. Our staff is here to assist you in getting the answers you need, and our top-tier medical team will provide the highest quality of care. Visit or contact our office today!