Dear Coach Holly,

I recently found out the shocking news that I have hepatitis c!  My doctor ran some blood tests, now he is telling me that either I should take treatment or there is 'nothing' that he can do for me.  What should I do?

Dear 'in shock',

I know that the day that you receive your hepatitis c diagnosis will always stick in your mind ~ along with the words that your doctor used to tell you.  It is a terrible shock, and so many questions run through your mind, such as; where did I get this, have I given it to anyone else, is this going to affect my life span, and my quality of life?

There are several things that come to mind, when I read you question: 1.  What kind of doctor did you see. Was it a gastroenterologist, hepatologist, or your internist?  If it was the second of the two doctor's that I mentioned above -- a hepatologist, I would guess that he works with and treats liver patients on a regular basis.  If it was a gastroenterologist, then he may or may not be familiar with liver disease, and hepatitis c.  Some internists have dealt with many liver patients, and are up on the latest treatments, etc., but there are many specialties to know about, so you may want to seek out a liver doctor (hepatologist) for a second opinion, and perhaps a biopsy, if they suggest it.

 Other factors to consider, once you have determined that your doctor is familiar with all of this, and an 'expert' so to speak in the area, is whether or not this is the time for you to go on treatment (depending on your biopsy results also).  Some people are able to continue to work, and manage their lives, others are not as fortunate, and the side-effects of the treatment leave them unable to function on a normal basis, and depending on their line of work, may need to take some time off of work.  I suggest that you get all of the information that you can, both about your particular condition, and about hepatitis c in general. Also, what does your health insurance cover? 

I also suggest that you seek support, whether in the form of a group, or individual, this is the time when you will need the reassurance of those who have been through this before, and the many issues surrounding a new diagnosis. 

Dear Coach Holly,

I have hepatitis c, and am wondering what I should and shouldn't do that will affect my health?  I have read so many things that differ from each other?

Dear 'Should or Shouldn't',

You did not mention in your letter whether or not you had been to a liver specialist.  I would encourage you to place yourself in the hands of a good liver doctor, one that you are comfortable with, can talk to, and find knowledgeable.  A good doctor will monitor you through blood and other tests.

The one thing that I have heard from liver specialists is to stop drinking any alcohol at all.  I have also heard that the general opinion of these doctors is that drinking alcohol will cause your hepatitis c to progress more quickly than it would otherwise.

Also, many of the specialists caution patients from taking Aspirin, or Ibuprofen products, as they have been known to cause bleeding, or further inflammation of the liver.  Many of the herbs and teas that patients seek out for 'cures' are also hard on the liver.  Please ask your doctor before you try any alternative remedies, or take any medications, even any 'over the counter' medications. I would encourage you to find a source (in addition to your doctor) to obtain credible facts about hepatitis and liver disease.  There are quite a few websites that contain rumor and false information, but also many good websites that will supply information, you will find some of them on the 'links & resources' page of this site, or you can log on to Liver411.com for medically approved information and links.

Contact Holly, your Hepatitis Support Counselor for answers to questions on things like hepatitis transmission, hepatitis medication, and hepatitis treatment.

For Questions, contact:
HEPATITIS CONSULTANTS
Holly Heller, MS
Hepatitis & Liver Counselor, Certified Coach
Professional Patient Hepatitis C Support
Phone: (818) 996-5135 or (818) 203-2085

Email: hepcounselor@aol.com