Hepatitis C Support Group
Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral disease which can cause liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is spread by blood-to-blood contact with an infected person's blood. Many people with HCV infection have no symptoms and are unaware of the need to seek treatment. Hepatitis C infects an estimated 150-200 million people worldwide.
Just want to say hello. I just came on board. I learned last week that I am Hep C positive and fortunately, was able to get into a GI Doc on Friday for my viral load. I have an ultrasound scheduled for monday.
Right now, there is a lot of fear of the unknown. Hell, I am scared. I have been emotional. I have a wonderful girlfriend who is a two time cancer survivor and she has been and will continue to be a source of strength.
I do feel embarassed. Before now, I was uneducated about this virus. I am fearful of all my coworkers treating me like I have the plague. People unwilling to shake my hand because of the fear of catching it.
My brother told me that I should never tell anyone outside my household. I disagree. Once I have the results of the viral load test and have started treatment, I am considering standing up at a staff meeting and again before my church congregation and telling them. A) so they hopefully wont ostracize me and B) to educate them.
I would love to know how everyone else handled it.
Right now, there is a lot of fear of the unknown. Hell, I am scared. I have been emotional. I have a wonderful girlfriend who is a two time cancer survivor and she has been and will continue to be a source of strength.
I do feel embarassed. Before now, I was uneducated about this virus. I am fearful of all my coworkers treating me like I have the plague. People unwilling to shake my hand because of the fear of catching it.
My brother told me that I should never tell anyone outside my household. I disagree. Once I have the results of the viral load test and have started treatment, I am considering standing up at a staff meeting and again before my church congregation and telling them. A) so they hopefully wont ostracize me and B) to educate them.
I would love to know how everyone else handled it.
I only told folks that I thought would be helpful. If education would help, we have social meds by now. Be careful.
I don't give a *uck about me, I do however about my family--that is something to consider when telling others whom may or may not have good intentions. What is said to your face may different to what is said behind you back. Consider this if children are involved.
I did a 24 week course of triple treatment with Incivek, and was cured as of last July. It was NOT fun, but it was worth it.
There is a LOT of ignorance out there, even among some healthcare professionals. I know a few first-responders who suit up in full protective gear before touching an HCV patient, which is pretty dumb. HCV is pretty hard to get; except through direct blood exposure. I unknowingly had HCV during my entire eight year marriage, and my ex never got it.
Count yourself lucky. At least you know that you have it...many people don't find out until their liver is shot. Now you can do something about it :-)