Hep C genotype 1a

[arpren]

Im interested in other people who have  genotype 1 a and there experiences with it. I have had the virus for about 17 years and  started   combination interferon/ribavirin treatment about  a month ago, these drugs make you feel bloody horrible with all the side effects.
I can,t sleep now without sleeping pills and get horrible headaches,fatigue,sore and dry eyes,and aches in the body.
Depression hits occasionly as well as irritability plus just this horrible feeling in the body
My  neutrophil white cell count has dropped so much I caught a bacterial infection which im now on antibiotics for , and other times I find it difficult breathing the first weeks its like someone has poisoned you. Im not sure whether I can stay on these drugs the whole 48 weeks, its  a shock the side effects are that bad.

[arpren]

so your on the homestretch  . I forgot to mention brain fog too and liver pain, dod yu get those symptoms too. whats your viral load now at 46 weeks?

[arpren]

thanks for your encouragement . i think i will stay on through the 48 weeks and go through  it despite the side effects like the  thousands before me who have endured the trial of treatment

[CMcH]

I am 1a and at 46 of 48 weeks and this does suck. I had read up on this forum 6 months prior to TX and thought I was prepared. Nothing can really prepare you for this! The docs certainly wont. You will hear from many that it is tough but doable. Time does fly by with the help of brain fog and just when I feel I can't take it anymore it gets better.
Remember that! I call this my chemical year because of all the meds I take just for the side effects. I do what I have to to get by. My doctor has admitted to poisoning my body with these drugs and it does make me worry about long term effects. Keep in mind that ESLD or liver cancer would be much worse and this to shall pass.
I find that it helps to keep busy so I am distracted from the side effects.
You can and will do it with a little help from your friends on the forum.
Connie

[fretboard]

Sounds like you're doing well as can be expected.  I suggest you try not to think about 48wks, instead just think of getting thru the week.  Also, if you need an anti-depressant ask your doctor.  If you're feeling bits of a depression tapping in, then it may be appropriate to start one.  Talk to your doctor about it.  good luck