Hepatitis C Support Group

I was diagnosed with HCV last week through a regular checkup. My doc didn't explain much but is finding me a specialist.

What should I know about this disease? I'm trying to wrap my head around this but I can't seem to.

Thank you.

Welcome first of all and dont be so scared, we all feel that way when were told the news. It will be ok.

Did they happen to say what type you are and what your vl is? You will want to keep copies of all your blood work weather you understand it or not. You know if it looks different month to month

I also started my treatment about a week ago and I was scared like you, because the doctor told me that first week is usually the hardest one, but I didn't feel anything strange, I've taken the second interferon injection yesterday and I'm feeling good, so don't worry, not all people have severe side effects.

You should read what others say about their treatments and listen to their advices like drinking alot of water and taking the injection before bedtime.

And remeber that at the end of this treatment you'll get a prize, so don't give up, you can do it

Me either I didnt get any of the triditional sides. I was just weak and tired. My hair didnt even fall out. How ever I did get pulled from tx due to low blood counts (I think the doc got scared) I just felt weak and tired and numb legs.

Water Water water and more water is the key espically the day of your shot. Here is a site that may help it has been around for a long time

http://www.hepcsurvivalguide.org/comboguide.htm

Hi scaredsick2,

I am in my fifth week of treatment. I found out I have Hep C in 2008. I too was scared when the Dr. said I should go into treatment. Joining this group and learning all I could find out helped ease my worries.

Kevin

I just wanted to say hello and welcome to the group. First let me say relax, it's not a death sentence. Yes it is hard to deal with the thought you have HCV, but its truely not the end of the world.

First they will do more blood work, then maybe a biopsy, and ultrasound. From there they will genotype you and let you know what stage your liver is in.

This is the group to come to for answers. We are in this together.

Welcome to the group! I have to say the people in this support group have made it possible for me to complete my treatment of 24 weeks last Saturday. I go to have my blood drawn tomorrow. My hair is still falling out, I got a pixie cut today to celebrate and make me feel better. My side effects were mostly lack of energy, numb legs, nausea, and some psych kinda stuff every now and then. I had to get on an antidepressant and that helped alot. The above mentioned website has good info and the Veterans Administration and American College of Gastroenterology does too. Best wishes and prayers for you. Kas