Hepatitis C, caused by a virus, leads to liver inflammation. If not treated soon, it can lead to liver cirrhosis and other serious complications. Despite the health risks, hepatitis C is curable. There are several treatments and medicines available to cure the infection and lower the intensity of the symptoms. Along with medications, certain lifestyle changes can help manage the mild side effects of the medicines and the recovery process.
Here are a few hepatitis C management tips that are easy to follow.

1. Get enough sleep
Many people with hep C experience difficulty in sleeping. So it becomes essential to practice healthy sleeping habits. Maintaining a sleep and wake cycle can be extremely helpful in dealing with insomnia. Moreover, a consistent sleeping pattern will also help in staying and feeling healthy during hepatitis C treatments.

2. Follow a balanced diet
There is no special diet to be followed for hepatitis C. However, eating a healthy and nutritious diet will help in feeling energized and well. In addition, this will help in lowering the intensity of side effects and symptoms. In many cases, hepatitis medications cause loss of appetite and nausea. Maintaining a balanced diet with whole and fresh foods can help in dealing with these side effects. Healthy eating habits such as eating smaller portions and having meals on time can be beneficial as well.

3. Take care of mental health
Even though hepatitis C is curable, the treatment process can be long and arduous. This can be overwhelming and stressful for some people. It is normal to experience anger, fear, and sadness. In addition, certain medications for hepatitis C often increase the risk of depression and anxiety, causing a setback in the overall treatment. This is why it is essential to take care of mental health. Attending therapy sessions or talking to a confidante/counselor can also be helpful in such cases.

4. Stay hydrated
Antiviral treatments such as those for hepatitis C can quickly cause dehydration. In addition, the medications can cause side effects such as headaches, dry mouth, and skin. Drinking enough water in the day can help manage these side effects. Moreover, drinking caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea can aggravate dehydration. So, drinking more water to replenish the body is another effective hepatitis C management tip.

5. Maintain body weight
Obesity is a major factor that causes fatty liver disease. Those with hepatitis C are at a higher risk of severe liver complications. Being overweight can also increase the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and other health issues that can severely impair hepatitis C treatment. So, one of the simplest hepatitis C management tips is to keep a tab on the body weight. Ensure that it is within a healthy range.

6. Be physically active
A regular exercise routine is essential for good health. It not only helps in shedding the extra body weight but also gives a boost to mood and helps in combating fatigue. In addition, a daily exercise routine that can include walking or yoga can be beneficial in managing hepatitis C. Consult a doctor before starting any exercise routine since an incompatible form of exercising can cause more harm than good.