Re replies to Stomach Problems

[Ofretta]

Thanks to all for your replies.  I am going to insist on a Specialist.  

I have been symptom free up until this gastric problem and as I am getting up there in age (58) I keep thinking I have been very lucky so far - no pale stools, no fatigue, no mental confusion - (I just finished a college degree with top marks last year.) I remain active and do not drink alcohol, although I did once upon a time. The loose stools could be the result of the medication (pantaloc).

I just want to get to the bottom of this stomach problem. I know there are people with Hep C out there who are living past seventy, symptom free.  I know of one friend who is 62 and was diagnosed not that long ago.  He figured he got it in the sixties but has minimal liver damage and has chosen not go on tx as he heard the cure can damage your health and has no guarantees. At this age I'd prefer not to go on meds if I can help it. It's all so confusing!!

Thanks again all.

[kojak66]

You need to get a biopsey.
With out one, all anyone can do is guess about the condition of your liver.
Liver function tests do not show how much damage has been done.
Call The American Liver Foundation @ 1-800-223-0179 for a list of specialists in your area.

[britgirl]

For me, genotype was the biggest factor in my decision to treat. You say there are no guarantees about treatment working, which is true, but 80% chance (genos 2 and 3)is better than 50%(geno 1). Also, it is only for 6 months, not a year, another important factor. On the face of it, as someone who had no symptoms from the Hep C but has been left with permanent health problems as the result of tx (hypothyroidism, hearing loss)you might think I would regret the decision to treat, but I don't. I feel happier knowing the virus has gone and is no longer attacking my liver even though I never felt ill. By the way, no symptoms is no guarantee of no liver damage; I had fibrosis (scarring) even though I felt fine.

[cuteus]

I'm happy you are not taking one answer as gospel. It is your wellbeing after all.  
The problem with hep c is that many view it as just a liver disease, and think that mild damage = no need for tx. If you find yourself fatigued, achy, with joint pain, stomach discomfort, memory loss, neuropathy...suspect the effect of a virus assaulting your immune system for years. It's like the egg commercial(is not for breakfast anymore), iHep c is not for liver anymore.
I am 52 and Tx has not been the monster I thought it would be. It all depends on your health before tx and on what quality of life that you want. If hep c is not making your life painful, and liver is normal, then enjoy.
The practice I go to will treat anyone regardless of age.
It can be such a tough decission.