disgnosed this week , need some support

[JDB1964]

I am in need of some support or conversation re a diagnosos this week of Hep C. Where to start on this forum ?

[desrt]

Ask your doctor about the IL28B test. The chances are about 80% to the good that you can go undetected and stay that way using the current two drug combo for 24 weeks. If you fail to get a rapid virological response (RVR) or if you have harsh side effects, you might want the info from this test to help you make decisions mid-treatment.
Good luck with it.

[JDB1964]

I tested positive antibodies, genotype 3a load at 43000. This info was given on the phone! I have my first "real "Dr. appt) in two weeks.

[Trish77]

When people say they've been just diagnosed, it can mean one of two things - either they've just had an antibody test that shows presence of Hep C antibodies or they've had a PCR that confirms that they have a viral load and they now have a genotype.  Antibodies only indicate you were exposed to Hep C at one time. Viral load means that you were not one of the approximately 15% who clear it on their own and you do indeed have Hep C.

The more information we have about where you are at - do you have a viral load and genotype?  Are you waiting to see the specialist?  Etc. then we can have a more helpful conversation with you.  :)

Trish

[James10500]

http://www.hcvadvocate.org/hepatitis/factsheets_pdf/Newly%20Diagnosed_10.pdf

Check the document out.  One year ago I was in your position, I've now finished treatment and hopefully will achieve Sustained Virological response in July.

Good luck and talk to the people here, it's very helpful to know you're not alone.

[Mary4now]

welcome to the club,just keep asking questions and stop by to check us out.  I found out 2 yrs. ago and just started tx. this Jan., I'm in a study, otherwise I could not afford it.  hanging in and hoping for the best.  I think I've had it for 40 yrs. I am genotype 1 stage 1, grade 1
what are your stats?
dont worry, just keep moving forward,
Mary

[lapis]

Welcome to the forum.  You will find plenty of support here from folks who are living with the virus, as well as people who have treated and cleared.  I remember how stunned I was when I first learned I was positive for HCV.

What questions do you have?  As you go forward, you will learn more and more about HCV, and you will probably have more questions as well.  Please hang around here and use this resource.  I've learned more about HCV here than I did from any physician.  Many members of the forum are experts (my opinion) on HCV and related topics, though there are few doctors here.  You can use the search bar and read previous posts about specific topics, or look at any member's profile and see what they have posted.  There is a lot to learn!

Best wishes going forward.
Lapis