Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

new diagnosis

I've recently been diagnosed with hep c (2 months ago). I was diagnosed because i was symptomatic, judging from my exposure to the disease, and fairly recent hep c tests; i've been infected for 4 months. I have, of course read a fair amount; most articles say that it is rare to be symptomatic during the acute phase, and more rare still for those symptoms to be pronounced. My family have read the same articles and seem to think i'm exaggerating when i describe my symptoms.

I'm pretty sure my concentration and short-term memory are quite severely compromised, fatigue is severe - i sometimes have that feeling like you've just run a race, really exerted yourself and actually feel like crying. i did have bouts of severe nausea for a couple of months, which have gone now, as have the 'floaters' i was seeing. i feel like my hormones are all over the place ... even though virtually impossible; i was convinced i was pregnant for a while. My ALT is staying at 260.

Has anyone else had symptoms like these in the acute phase? and did you find that they'd come and go?

I've seen a consultant: due to the fact that i have a bi-polar diagnosis, he's very reticent to prescribe interferon treatment. He made a follow up appointment for september - 3 months after my initial appointment, and about 6 months after i contracted the virus ... he didn't say why so long, but i'm guessing he's waiting to see whether i clear the virus???

If my ALT remains elevate at 260 and i don't clear the virus, or take treatment will my liver inevitable be damaged?

I know i've asked a lot of questions here, sorry - i'm suddenly feeling a little overwhelmed. Any answers very much appreciated : )

5 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
950394 tn?1261347338
hi i actually just got diagnose the last month of may with hep c and i myself had symptoms like u n im in my acute stage to i go to the liver doctor tomorrow to find out wear i go next. so i know how u feel. stay strong. kuk560
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
ok, so waiting till september is fine ... good.  i do appreciate he's not in the easiest position treatment wise.

royal free hospital - solid rep as far as i know, i chose it over UCL, cos i was told it had a v good hepatology department.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
HCA
I am in the U.K too!
The ALT probably won't stay at 260-it tends to flare up during the acute stage.
Hep C does cause cell death but it's usually very slow-twenty years is typical for fibrosis to start to emerge.
On balance though you want to get rid of it as soon as possible.
I think the key factor is your bi-polar status.If you were to attempt suicide whilst on treatment the doctor would be in a very difficult position!!!!!!!!
I hope you are seeing a consultant at one of the teaching hospitals,you really need to be treated by one of the big guns.
Your liver won't come to any great harm between now and your next appointment.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thank you for your reply, if you're able to answer: another question ...

my liver doctor didn't specify why he wanted to wait 3 months before seeing me again, i asked him when i could discuss the new blood results (not even sure what he tested for, i presume viral load, genotype etc), he said: when he sees me in september.

if he's not counting on the one in six chance of clearing (which seems unlikely), what is he waiting for?  perhaps that i can live with hep c ? if that's his view is the 260 ALT (same on 3 tests over about 2 1/2 months) not a problem, it's indicative of cell death - is that what causes fibrosis eventually?

i'm asking you all this, so that i am better placed to phone him and ask for my appointment to be moved forward.

why do you suggest interferon treatment asap?

btw, bear in mind: i'm in england which has a national health system.

thanks again
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
HCA
Generally speaking it is better to treat if you catch it in the acute stage-high clear up rate plus short treatment.
Your ALT will probably reduce if you don't treat,but will still remain abnormal (probably).
I would consider 12 weeks treatment to start asap..
Bi-polar is an issue but will be more of an issue if you have to do full length treatment for chronic infection.
Spontaneous clearance would be nice but it's a one in six shot.
Your liver doctor and your psychiatrist need to consult and decide if you can handle the treatment.
They will be very concerned if you have had suicidal ideation.
Good luck!
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Hepatitis C Community

Top Hepatitis Answerers
317787 tn?1473358451
DC
683231 tn?1467323017
Auburn, WA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Answer a few simple questions about your Hep C treatment journey.

Those who qualify may receive up to $100 for their time.
Explore More In Our Hep C Learning Center
image description
Learn about this treatable virus.
image description
Getting tested for this viral infection.
image description
3 key steps to getting on treatment.
image description
4 steps to getting on therapy.
image description
What you need to know about Hep C drugs.
image description
How the drugs might affect you.
image description
These tips may up your chances of a cure.
Popular Resources
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.