A man from the Vale of Glamorgan shared his “gut-wrenching” experience after receiving a diagnosis for hepatitis C, a disease he unknowingly lived with for 20 years. Andrew Eadie, a former tree surgeon from Barry, got a tattoo on his right arm two decades ago, not knowing the harm it would cause later in life. In April 2022, Andrew visited his GP for a suspected chest infection but was referred to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff due to significant swelling on his stomach. Blood tests revealed cirrhosis of the liver caused by hepatitis C, a virus transmitted through blood contact.
Andrew’s wife, Julie Eadie, described the shock of discovering the diagnosis as “gut-wrenching.” Learning that Andrew could have contracted the virus through infected blood from tattoo guns used years ago was a revelation. Approximately 8,000 people in Wales live with hepatitis C, often unaware until complications arise. In Andrew’s case, the virus led to significant liver damage, but strict medication cleared the infection within weeks, saving his life and preventing transmission to Julie.
Andrew now advocates for testing, encouraging those at risk to get checked, as hepatitis C can remain asymptomatic until it causes severe liver issues. Symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and nausea. High-risk groups include individuals with a history of blood transfusions, drug use, tattoos from unlicensed parlours, and certain medical procedures. Testing kits for hepatitis C and other blood-borne viruses are available for free through Test and Post, with further information provided by healthcare providers and NHS 111 Wales.
Delyth Tomkinson, a clinical nurse specialist, emphasised the importance of awareness and testing for hepatitis C, highlighting the ease and efficacy of treatment. Andrew and Julie Eadie’s story serves as a reminder of the silent threat posed by hepatitis C and the value of early detection and intervention. In a bid to raise awareness, Andrew urged others to get tested “just to be on the safe side,” emphasising the importance of proactive healthcare in preventing undiagnosed cases.