So Many Questions

[LaTory]

I've been reading all the posts.  I have had Hep C for many years,so they tell. Been turned down for life insurance due to Hep C. Seen many doctors in the past and recent last two years, one a liver specialist.  None suggest any treatment. None have gone to length in explaining my condition which is I assume good. I don't see doctors often because I do not have Med insurance.  Apparently my enzymes have gone from 30 to 90 in the past 15 years, whatever that means.  I haven't been told anything else. I can't afford to see a doctor anymore, and I have not worked in a year because I am just too fatigue most the time. When I do get a job, I simply do not want to be there and it shows in my attitude. Did see one doc and paid for it myself, and he didn't seem to think I was sick at all.  But all the med language is confusing me, like geno type etc.  Can someone clue me in?  No doctor has ever suggested I get a biopsy saying it could harm me more than anything.  I am a mature woman.  Maybe they just feel I am a lost cause?  Actually every doctor I have seen, seem completely ignorant to Hep C.  It's like they don't want to promise anything when I ask will I get better.

[lauraisstrongerthenHCV]

if you dont work then you can get medical assistance if you have HEP C.... I get it and it is great I dont even have a copay!!!!  I know most people think medical assistance really sucks but really it is the best insurance I have ever had and it is free... you have to go to your local department of social services and they will help you.....they can even help you get money or file for disability since you can not work.  Dont be embarrassed b/c that is how I felt at first but I got over it really quick when I knew it was my life and it really is easy to get!!!!!

[jmjm530]

You might want to call the office of the liver specialist you saw and request they send you a copy of your complete file -- blood tests, procedures if any, etc.

If you can't seem to communicate with them, then seek out another liver specialst (hepatologist). I wouldn't even bother with a GI or GP at this point since it seems you've already seen some doctors who were not very knowledgable. Hepatologists can usually be found at your larger, teaching hospitals, and some may have clinical programs where you don't have to pay. Call around to find out.

As far as your "fatigue" and problems with work, they could be related to the hepatitis C, but it's just as probable they are not related at all. Many of us have had hepatitis c for years with hardly any symptons.

BTW you didn't mention your age. Many of us are quite "mature" -- like in our 50's and 60's, but I doubt, for example, if they would treat anyone over 80 if they were asymptomatic -- but that's just a guess. None of here are doctors.

Get your files, start calling around, see another doctor (or two) and get this off your mind.

All the best.

-- Jim

[mycoldfeet]

A lot of us know the feeling of being uninsurable, I don't know where you are from, but Charity Hospitals are teaching Hospitals and have good Doctors, and only charge on your ability to pay, they will also have counselers to advise you of what programs you qualify for, and as we have posted many of us get our meds directly from the Companies for free. You are not alone. A couple of places to get information is www.hcvadvocate.org and clinicaloptions.com Good Luck and we're here to help, but read a little on those links and will tell you a lot about Hep C and your options.

[Alady1620]

Check out this website.  It will answer most of your questions about genotype and liver enzymes.

http://janis7hepc.com/

Should you decide to treat, there are several study's you could get into which would give you meds and access to a doctor for free.  In some cases, they even pay the patient.  

The drug companies also offer free meds to people who qualify for their programs.

[SoCal Lady]

Torry?