Hep C is back. Now what?

[SeniorSis]

After 6 mos. of treatment, my Hep C came back in less than 3 mos.  Count was 156,000.  I am 75 years old and think I was infected in 1958 when I received a blood transfusion.  It did not show up until I was in my 70's.  The meds just about killed me with all the side effects so I don't want to do that again.  My Dr. says we should do nothing but keep an eye on the viral count from time to time.  I know I'm up in years but I still have a lot of pep left in me.  I have been babysitting my infant granddaughter for over 2 years now and just want to be as healthy as I can be.  My neighbor has suggested Beta Glucan which is made from plants and supports the immune system.  She also suggested the use of the Avalon light which provides the body with Nitric Oxide which the body needs.  (I hope I used the right name.)  Just wondered if you have any suggestions.  I also enjoy a beer after working in the yard or a glass of red wine on occasion.  Thanks for your support.

[SeniorSis]

Thanks, Dee1956, for your direction and advice.  I'll look into it.  SeniorSis

[orphanedhawk]

Genotype 2 does not do any better statistically with the triple combination of meds. I'm geno 2 and was happy to only take the two strong meds, why add another if you don't need it?

However, genotype 2 is responding very well to the new interferon free meds currently in trial. They won't be avialble for the general public at least a couple of years.

As far as abbreviations and acronyms go, it has nothing to do with being sharp. Here's a link for you:
http://www.medhelp.org/health_pages/Hepatitis/Hepatitis-C-Acronyms-Abbreviations/show/3?cid=64

Good luck.

[SeniorSis]

I am amazed at your knowledge about Hep C and it's effects.  Also, how age might determine the progression of fibrosis/cirrhosis.  I believe I contracted the virus at age 21 when my second daughter was about to be born.  The Hep C didn't rear up it's ugly head until the age of 70.  During a routine exam, my liver enzymes were elevated.  The virus was located with further testing.  Thanks again for all you support and the sharing of your knowledge.  

[SeniorSis]

Thank you so much for all your kind words.  Since I feel just fine, it will not be difficult to enjoy my life.  I wish you well and hope one day we will all be Hep C free!!!

[SeniorSis]

I was treated with Pegasus Interfiron and Ribavirin tablets.  One shot a week and 2 pills twice daily.  It was not pleasant at all. Lots of bad side effects. But then I am a senior and maybe that makes a difference..  I have Hep C type 2. I was told the newest treatments for Hep C don't work on the Type 2.  ???   I won't be drinking any alcohol at all.  I seem to remember my Dr. telling me that 1 drink of red wine would not hurt but my memory does sometime fail me.  My common sense tells me that if my liver is already compromised alcohol is a no-no,
I'm not the "sharpest knife in the drawer" so many of the terms and abbreviations my good friends are using don't mean anything to me.  I've never been told anything about my stage of fibrosis.  I did have a liver biopsy about 4 years ago and the results were normal.  Maybe that means I don't have any fibrosis.  Thanks for all you help and support.  We're all in this together!!   Good  Luck with your results.

[his3707]

sorry about your relapse,  I was also curious what you treated with.  And what stage of liver damage you are dealing with.   That was very courageous  for you to take this fight on @ 75.    Your a strong person obviously!  Best of luck to you