This forum is for questions about medical issues and research aspects of
Hepatitis C such as, questions about being newly diagnosed, questions about current treatments, information and participation in discussions about research studies and clinical trials related to Hepatitis. If you would like to communicate with other people who have been touched by Hepatitis, please visit our new
Hepatitis Social/Living with Hepatitis forum
Do you have a risk factor for Hbv or Hcv? Such as unprotected sex (mainly hep B risk) or intravenous drug use (mainly hep C risk)?
If so, how long ago? If you have a risk factor, get tested for hep and hope for the best. Antibody tests are reliable after three months or so.
Don't jump to conclusions, though. GET TESTED if you have a risk factor.
However - new things amaze me each and every day.
Have your doctor take a Hep Panel.
And have them test you for your VIRAL LOAD - your liver enzymes (basically do a PCR and a full blood test CBC)
If you are HepC Positive, you'll need to know your: Genotype, Viral load.
Then come back and ask what questions you need answered.
Don't worry overmuch though until you know your damage level. Some people have HEPC for 20-40 years before they begin to get ill - some NEVER get ill.
Take a deep breath. Breathe - panic later --- like when the sky actually falls.
Good luck on being neg for HCV.
Meki