Hurting, Swelled, and Scared

[Sena2014]

Ive been an IV user off and on for ten years. Ive been clean for a year now and been in a suboxone clinic. I was hospitalized back four months ago for heart failure and that was when I found out I had Hep C I just got an apt finally with a GI Dr this Thursday. I chose to come off the suboxone and the pain in my joints and lower back has got unbearable. My history with drug abuse has made it hard to even get ibuprofen. I realize its my fault but now what am I too do? I don't know how long I have had the hep C. I don't know what to expect at the apt and will this Dr help me control the pain? Im on strong water pills now for the water retention and blood pressure pills. Im on so much medication its crazy... Now this... I just want to feel better and have a life again. Any help and information would be so much appreciated. What kinda of questions should I ask at my appointment Thursday? And what all will they do as far as test that day?

[Livelife777]

Congrats on 1 year of sobriety.  This shows that you have the guts to make it thru.  Stop blaming yourself for past problems.  We have all made mistakes in our life and you can't move on with regret.  Use those tools of the past to focus in on what lies ahead, presumably good health.
I don't think you will be subject to a Q and A monologue.  You basically need to get the new meds and rid yourself of the virus.  This is causing inflammation and your liver is paying the price.  Take with you a trusted friend to help understand the unfamiliar verbage.  When stressed out we tend to not focus on whats actually been suggested.  
Your aches and pains may somewhat diminish once you reach an undetected status.  This virus wreaks havoc with our entire system and could be the underlying culprit.  Unfortunately autoimmune issues can also be an end result of the virus, and you may be faced with pain issues in the future.  There is help for that and your Doc will be the one to help mitigate that situation.
My best advice would be to just be honest about your past.  With liver disease they have heard the gamut of scenarios and typically do not prejudge.  Along with getting meds for Hep C, you want to stay on the straight and narrow path.  Eliminate all toxins esp alcohol which will strain your liver even further.  Try to eat healthy, get some exercise, and keep a positive attitude.  You can alter the course of your life, but it takes commitment and inner strength.
I'm in your corner and so are all the others that have walked in your shoes.  In the end you will find that all the effort does have reward.  Try to not beat yourself up for prior indiscretions of the past.  Tomorrow is a new day and the future is a great tomorrow.
.....Kim

[keepingOnkeepingOn]

One step at a time. Breathe. You might have to see what they say before you can form your questions. Everyone starts at the beginning to learn of how best to care for themselves and what questions to ask.

[Hepfreelife]

Congratulations on being clean for a year!! That's awesome! I have severe joint pain too but I use yoga to help. Maybe it's time to get cured and feel better. Not sure what they will do to help you with your pain, but be careful you don't pick up new habits. I have been clean for 14 years.