4wk lab results

[Mmorgan856]

I could not get into my G.I. For another month, so thankfully, I have everyone here that will alleviate my stress while I wait to see him.  My starting ALT WAS 113 ,   AST 23. RBC 4.85. Hemoglobin 14.6. HCV 45.4.. After 4 wks on solvaldi / RIBA my HGb  11.1. An hot 35.  Are those drops pretty normal for 4 wks on treatment??  Should I be concerned.  Some of the sides have lessened in severity except for fatigue an  unrational irratibility.  Which is happening quite often.  Do I seem to be on track so far as treatment.  Trying to drink flots of fluids is difficult for me I'm thinking it's very important, though.  Thanks in advance, I just know they're some very knowledgable people on this forum to help me make sense of the lad results. Take care. Mary

[Mmorgan856]

Hey there,, sorry bout the typo error,  can't stand spell check.. What I meant to type is my hct was 35, down from 45.4 two weeks ago.  And another question, if it drops below 8-9 an they drop RIBA dose, would that affect the outcome.  I'm assuming it would cause what I'm understanding is the RIBA  is the drug killing the virus.  Is that right?  Would they extend the treatment or no?  Know insurance wouldn't pick it up but just saying, would extending the treatment if your getting lower doses of RIBA help??  Thanks. Mary

[Livelife777]

Hi there.   You gave us starting #s, but I only see Hmg levels as 4 weeks into treatment.   Don't know what.  An hot 35 means.  Your starting Hmg was 14.6
And 4 weeks into treatment 11.1.  Would say that sounds about right, but everyone has different experiences.  Your Hmg most likely will trend lower, and that should be watched.  At the moment it's good.  Mine started about the same, and at EOT was 10.4.   Some rapidly dropped, and others towards the end.  They really don't watch it unless it goes below 10.  Sometimes it doesn't drop further, and remains stable.  Should it get below 10, on next blood draw you may experience more fatigue.  Should it get to the 8 or 9 range, they may lower your dose of Riba.  Will say all your starting #s look good except the ALT was elevated which is normal with the virus.   That will go to normal as treatment progresses.
The feelings of anxiety and unrational irritability are also normal on meds.  They kinda come and go.  From what others have said, they seem to be the worst between week 3-4, and taper off.  For me they would kinda come and go, as no 2 sides are the same.  Have read you may have ups and downs with emotions and that is also typical on Sovd and Riba.   Make sure you have your meds in the event you need them
Do believe so far you are handling everything like a pro.  Know you were fearful starting, but you are already one third done.  2 weeks and it will be half way there.
Keep up with the water, rest when needed, and try to stay busy.  Keeps your mind occupied with less worry.  Exercise is key, as it releases anxiety and keeps you clear headed.  Walk the mall, or go for a swim.  It's the best therapy there is.
Stay strong and your doing great!