Pros and Cons of Hep C

Trying2B · 10-30-2009, 08:32 AM

Does anybody read anything about hep c ? There are a lot of books out there that may help you understand this virus. Does your DR. tell you about supplements to take, like milk thistle, or certain foods to eat or not that are liver friendly? I am 54 and have had hep c for 35+yrs, geno 1a, viral load was 8mil at the time. My drs. also wanted me to try the treatment, but I don't think they know enough about this virus yet. I have no symptoms of it, the fact is if I didn't get that physical done 4yrs ago I still wouldn't know I had it. My liver panel is normal, my viral load dropped to 1+ mil. I still have my glass of wine every night, and still feel fine. Do your drs. tell you that some of those nasty side effects could be permanent. I'm not saying not to get the tx, but to get educated about it first. If your dr. said to jump would you jump? Good luck to all.

eddie1954 · 11-07-2009, 07:29 PM

I think it is marvelous this has worked for you, but what is the differance of a doc telling you to take supplements as apposed to tx. it is the same thing you jumped for supplements, i have read milk thisle is very bad.........WHO TO BELIEVE, i chose medical science and it worked.......

Pug_girl · 11-14-2009, 06:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trying2B

Does anybody read anything about hep c ? There are a lot of books out there that may help you understand this virus. Does your DR. tell you about supplements to take, like milk thistle, or certain foods to eat or not that are liver friendly? I am 54 and have had hep c for 35+yrs, geno 1a, viral load was 8mil at the time. My drs. also wanted me to try the treatment, but I don't think they know enough about this virus yet. I have no symptoms of it, the fact is if I didn't get that physical done 4yrs ago I still wouldn't know I had it. My liver panel is normal, my viral load dropped to 1+ mil. I still have my glass of wine every night, and still feel fine. Do your drs. tell you that some of those nasty side effects could be permanent. I'm not saying not to get the tx, but to get educated about it first. If your dr. said to jump would you jump? Good luck to all.

Dear trying2B

I'm in a similar situation as yourself. I'm 54, I have geno type 1a. I had a liver biopsy last year and found I am in stage 1, no damage to the liver. I have no syptoms of it. I'm sure I contracted it in the 70's partying too much but who didn't?!? I had the liver enzymes checked in the summer and I was in the normal range. Which got me all excited thinking maybe the virus was gone!! However, after more research I found that is normal. The levels fluctuate all the time. I had been told by my hepatologist that I am NOT a candidate for tx due to rhuematoid arthritis. So I will be taking my lumps with Hep C and arthritis (so to speak) as they come.

After reading all the posts of other fellow heppers going thru tx it scares me too much anyway. My body and spirit is not equipped to go thru that torment but I support everyone 100% who can.

My plan is to watch my grandchildren graduate from high school one day and maybe I'll die with Hep C and not from complications of the meds.

I have been reading, reading and reading about this disease. Not just books but the numerous healthboards that are available on the net. It's a wonderful place to find answers and peace of mind, at least for me. MY PCP never discussed anything about milk thistle, foods or alchohol to avoid, etc. Neither did my hepatologist. I asked whatever questions I could think of at the time but I was still in a fog from finding out I had it in the first place.

You have to be careful when taking any medication that could progress the liver disease. I have learned that alcohol and tylenol is like poison to the liver.

I bought the book "Living with Hepatitis C - A Survivor's Guide" by Gregory Emerson. Very good book and will answer your questions.

I feel it's important to listen to your inner voice. To treat or not to treat is an individualistic choice. You have a choice but I feel like you, do the benefits outweigh the risks? How do you know that your kidneys will not shut down from the chemo, etc. Lots of things to consider.

I wish you the best on your journey to find the answer that works for you.

Pug_Girl