Starting treatment

[Guest guest]

Hi ...I'm sorry that you have this disease...but it is great

that they found it before it did more damage...my husband wasn't so

luck...we wasted 4 years with a Dr who kept telling him it was all in

his head...anyways...speaking from a spouses perspective it is a hard

road to travel but fortunately I never look back and on focus on

moving forward...I'm sure your husband will adjust...

My husband tried treatment twice...it didn't work...but we know many,

many people that have had great success with it...it effects

different people in different ways...looking back i think the most

important thing is to have a good relationship with the Dr.and of

course a good personal support team. The first dr we had was

terrible...actually very mean...once we got rid of him things got

much better. fortunately for us we live in massachusetts not far from

Mass General...once we went there we had hope.

Another thing that has help my husband is his diet...he eats no

processed foods...all fresh veggies...fruits and grains...very little

meat...it keeps his liver from having to work too hard...I truely

believe that it is the only reason that he has lasted this long.

Good luck and I hope everything works out for you and you are in my

prayers

>

> I am just recently diagnosed with HCV and a biopsy has shown

minimal damage

> to my liver so far. In the midst of this mess I am counting myself

very

> lucky. I hope I remain lucky, if not I would wish my hubby becomes

as

> concerned and helpful as you are for yours.

> My other half just recently accepted my decision to start treatment

soon,

> well... he is still very much against it but has quite pressuring

me not to.

> And he is treating me pretty much as he did before diagnosis so

life at

> home is good again. If this keeps up I may keep him after all... was

> considering buying life insurance on him for awhile, lol. :-)

>

> Hope your day is going well,

>

>

> --------------------------------------------------------------------

--------

> ----

>

> Hi linda...thanks for you help...I agree with you about getting a

> good nights sleep...I believe if he can find someway to do that that

> it would make a world of difference...his dr suggested benedryl or a

> sleep aid...neither worked...my husband has a very hard time letting

> go of stress...he worries constantly...he also suffers from sleep

> apnia and restless leg syndrome...plus his abdoman is distended due

> to the acites which makes him even more uncomfortable...so needless

> to say bedtime isn't very restfull.

>

> I'm emailing his dr now to see if he can perscribe something to help

> him sleep.

>

> thanks again...Kath

[Guest guest]

Hi Mark, I too have stayed on the side lines for the most part, and I too have gained a great deal of info on Hep-C here. Invaluable! I was diagnosed with type 3. Had all the tests run on me. Was told that I got this stuff 20 plus years ago . . .Other than the terrible scare of being told I have HEP-C, and that these little virus bastards are just doing their thing inside me, about all that is wrong with me is that I have a fatty liver, and am one stage below being called a diabetic. What I have learned about the possible side effects and long term health concerns of today's TX really scares the Carp out of me. I think I have a little time to play with, in the hopes that the miracle cure will come along. If that doesn't happen I think something better than what is out there now will come along. So I'm waiting. May I ask what prompted you to under go TX now? Thanks, Rick B. mark_pbms

<frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi all,I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have keptup with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be startingtreatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be agood time for the first shot.I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I startto experience the side effects and hopefully I can share info thatwill help others as well.Thanks for the great forum,Mark

Photos Ring in the New Year with Photo Calendars. Add photos, events, holidays, whatever.

[Guest guest]

Hi Rick Well since you are not going to do tx, you really gotta take good care of your liver,, and make sure you get enough low fat protein to help your liver do its job..also stay away from anything white.. white bread, white rice, white sugar, white flour, etc,, your prediabetes will get better when you dont eat stuff that will trigger the need for insulin.. THAT doesnt mean eat butter, steaks all the times, you know what I mean, fatty foods, but eat low fat chicken, turkey, tofu, low fat cheese's,, and lots and lots of fresh vegies and low gylcemic fruits.. eat the whole fruit that has the fiber instead of opting for fruit juices etc.. Good luck Rick,, for some, waiting seems to be the best thing and you maybe one of those,, but in any case, stay in touch! hugs jaxRICK <getitrick@...> wrote: Hi Mark, I too have stayed on the side lines for the most part, and I too have gained a great deal of info on Hep-C here. Invaluable! I was diagnosed with type 3. Had all the tests run on me. Was told that I got this stuff 20 plus years ago . . .Other than the terrible scare of being told I have HEP-C, and that these little virus bastards are just doing their thing inside me, about all that is wrong with me is that I have a fatty liver, and am one stage below being called a diabetic. What I have learned about the possible side effects and long term health concerns of today's TX really scares the Carp out of me. I think I have a little time to play with, in the hopes that the miracle cure will come along. If that doesn't happen I think something better than what is out there now will come along. So I'm waiting. May I ask what prompted you to under go TX now? Thanks, Rick B. mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi all,I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have keptup with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be startingtreatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be agood time for the first shot.I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I startto experience the side effects and hopefully I can share info thatwill help others as well.Thanks for the great forum,Mark PhotosRing in the New Year with Photo

Calendars. Add photos, events, holidays, whatever. Jackie

[Guest guest]

Well Mark WE will be your cheerleaders through tx, so make sure you keep us updated as to how you are doing! I will keep you in my prayers and remember that a positive attitude can go a long way towards helping you reach your goal!!! AND drink a gallon of water every day to help with sides!! hugs jaxmark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi all,I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have keptup with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be startingtreatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be agood time for the first shot.I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I startto experience the side effects and hopefully I can

share info thatwill help others as well.Thanks for the great forum,Mark Jackie

[Guest guest]

Hi Rick,

Well, right now I have basically no symptoms...just a little nausea

occasionally. I just don't like the idea of a virus my immune system

can't deal with inside my body (and attacking my liver).

While I too am fearful of the side effects I've heard enough brave

people on this site deal with them and seen that they can be managed

effectively in most cases.

I figure if I can get rid of this thing now (in 24 weeks) it could

save me a lot of pain in the future. And I don't really see anything a

lot better being approved in the U.S. for some time (hope I'm wrong).

Anyway, I'll keep you posted on my progress and best of luck to you.

Mark

> Hi all,

>

> I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have kept

> up with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be starting

> treatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be a

> good time for the first shot.

>

> I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24

> weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I start

> to experience the side effects and hopefully I can share info that

> will help others as well.

>

> Thanks for the great forum,

> Mark

>

>

>

>

>

> It's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you

have found the support you need with us.

>

> If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group,

just click the link-- Hepatitis C/

>

> Happy Posting

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hey Jax,

Thanks for the cheers!!! I do have a positive attitude and plan to

continue working throughout unless I really get kicked down.

Fortunately, I can work from home when necessary so I'm hoping that

won't be an issue.

I do have a little business travel coming up that I may have to

postpone but I'm going to play that by ear until the time is closer.

My only real concerns are that my wife will need to undergo surgery

(unrelated to HCV) in about a month and one of my hounds has glaucoma

so I'll be a caregiver as well as receiver for part of treatment.

I've already started drinking water and have copied a lot of the

excellent advice from this site for use during Tx.

One question - Does anyone else use CareMark Specialty Pharmacy to get

their medicine and do you have any tips to share on dealing with them?

They seem really good so far but just thought I'd check.

Thanks again Jax,

Mark

> Hi all,

>

> I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have kept

> up with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be starting

> treatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be a

> good time for the first shot.

>

> I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24

> weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I start

> to experience the side effects and hopefully I can share info that

> will help others as well.

>

> Thanks for the great forum,

> Mark

>

>

>

>

>

> It's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you

have found the support you need with us.

>

> If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group,

just click the link-- Hepatitis C/

>

> Happy Posting

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

The very best of luck to you Mark. We'll be your cheering squad if you like. I just know you'll slay this darned Dragon my boy!

Love

anne

Starting treatment

Hi all,I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have keptup with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be startingtreatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be agood time for the first shot.I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I startto experience the side effects and hopefully I can share info thatwill help others as well.Thanks for the great forum,Mark

[Guest guest]

I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc

monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of

the interferon to become available. He finally said last May " It's

time " .

I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my

last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay

that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against

relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after

one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be

in the first month.

The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been

rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is

the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before!

(Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)

I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The

meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their

service.

> > Hi all,

> >

> > I've only posted occasionally over the past few months but have kept

> > up with the forum and gained a ton of information. I will be starting

> > treatment tomorrow (Peg/Copeg), thought a 3-day weekend would be a

> > good time for the first shot.

> >

> > I'm genotype 2 so I'm really hoping I will clear and be done in 24

> > weeks but time will tell. I'm sure I will be posting more as I start

> > to experience the side effects and hopefully I can share info that

> > will help others as well.

> >

> > Thanks for the great forum,

> > Mark

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > It's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you

> have found the support you need with us.

> >

> > If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group,

> just click the link-- Hepatitis C/

> >

> > Happy Posting

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefully

there will be no relapse to deal with.

I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit with

the GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if I

cleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until we

get there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.

LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myself

and it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds and

which are normal aging.

Thanks for the reply,

Mark

>

> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc

> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of

> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May " It's

> time " .

>

> I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my

> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay

> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against

> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after

> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be

> in the first month.

>

> The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been

> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is

> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before!

> (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)

>

> I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The

> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their

> service.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I

know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first

month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > > > > > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I

know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first

month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > > > > > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad. KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally

said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > >

[Guest guest]

I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and

joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks

for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that

is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and

joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks

for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that

is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

PS.. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATHY!!!!!KATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had

Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)>

> I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

PS.. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATHY!!!!!KATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had

Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)>

> I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

I was going to start tx in Oct but did not because the liver biopsy came back pretty clean. I am glad I did not because of still recovering from brain injury. Things are good but I have trouble with short-term memory and burning from nerve damage. The brain injury occurred the end of May and still having problems. Very hard to tell which is from the brain injury and which from hepc. So glad to have this group because the MDs don't seem to provide much info on either. I am on 900mg of Neurontin 4 times a day (3600 per day). Started having "break throughs" with the burning/tingling/freezing sensation on left side of body (worse on face, back and now hand). I really admire everyone on tx and what they are going through! Kathy PS thanks for the special wish!Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge

connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the

meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the

arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

I was going to start tx in Oct but did not because the liver biopsy came back pretty clean. I am glad I did not because of still recovering from brain injury. Things are good but I have trouble with short-term memory and burning from nerve damage. The brain injury occurred the end of May and still having problems. Very hard to tell which is from the brain injury and which from hepc. So glad to have this group because the MDs don't seem to provide much info on either. I am on 900mg of Neurontin 4 times a day (3600 per day). Started having "break throughs" with the burning/tingling/freezing sensation on left side of body (worse on face, back and now hand). I really admire everyone on tx and what they are going through! Kathy PS thanks for the special wish!Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge

connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the

meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the

arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie

[Guest guest]

Well if you dont have to do it and have "other issues", I would wait too,, and keep us informed how you are doing,, WE are here for you hon jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: I was going to start tx in Oct but did not because the liver biopsy came back pretty clean. I am glad I did not because of still recovering from brain injury. Things are good but I have trouble with short-term memory and burning from nerve damage. The brain injury occurred the end of May and still having problems. Very hard to tell which is from the brain injury and which from hepc. So glad to have this group because the MDs don't seem to provide much info on either. I am on 900mg of Neurontin 4 times a day (3600 per day). Started having "break throughs" with the burning/tingling/freezing sensation on left side of body (worse

on face, back and now hand). I really admire everyone on tx and what they are going through! KathyPS thanks for the special wish!Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie

on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24

weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure

against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie Jackie

[Guest guest]

Well if you dont have to do it and have "other issues", I would wait too,, and keep us informed how you are doing,, WE are here for you hon jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: I was going to start tx in Oct but did not because the liver biopsy came back pretty clean. I am glad I did not because of still recovering from brain injury. Things are good but I have trouble with short-term memory and burning from nerve damage. The brain injury occurred the end of May and still having problems. Very hard to tell which is from the brain injury and which from hepc. So glad to have this group because the MDs don't seem to provide much info on either. I am on 900mg of Neurontin 4 times a day (3600 per day). Started having "break throughs" with the burning/tingling/freezing sensation on left side of body (worse

on face, back and now hand). I really admire everyone on tx and what they are going through! KathyPS thanks for the special wish!Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie

on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms <frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24

weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure

against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie Jackie

[Guest guest]

I'm also a TBI (traumatic brain injury) survivor from a major car

accident which was right on top of my first hepatitis diagnosis in

1977. The hepatitis was supposedly " cured " back then and everything

took a back seat to my accident recovery. I'm probably 95% back, but

have nerve issues as well, shooting pain down my left arm, weakness on

my left side, balance problems, torn muscles, etc. I had memory loss

in there as well, some which has come back to me even recently.

So pain and being uncomfortable are pretty normal every day things for

me, hard to sort out what-is-what at times. I have also developed an

abnormally high threshold of pain, I block out things like ear aches

so by the time I get to the doc, I'm usually in bad shape.

So hang in there and let's all hope that '06 brings good things for

all of us.

Rob

[Guest guest]

How nice to hear from you and thank you for sharing that information. I was just diagnosed as well, when the accident occurred. Mine was in a horseback riding accident (happy to say still riding.) I get so confused because the GI offered treatment, but left the decision to me since my labs seemed to come back down and the biopsy showed pretty good tissue. I would go on treatment if it would get rid of the pain, but I think the horrible tingle/burn is from nerve issues. I am glad I did not go on treatment after hearing how some really have to go through major issues and I am not sure I could handle that now. My pain threshold is also very high and I get cuts and have no idea when or how. The MDs are amazed by the level of my strength but that can be bad as sometimes my temperment gets pretty bad. I am glad I have always been a reasonable, nonviolent person but do get moments I feel like I could really go after someone. This is all just so

much to deal with and being part of this site has helped. I did not know whether to join a tbi site or stay here but this site has been of the most help and the site of choice. Thanks again and it is encouraging to know that the memory part is still coming back. KathyRob <leftturn49@...> wrote: I'm also a TBI (traumatic brain injury) survivor from a major car accident which was right on top of my first hepatitis diagnosis in 1977. The hepatitis was supposedly "cured" back then and everything took a back seat to my accident recovery. I'm probably 95% back, but have nerve issues as well, shooting pain down my left arm, weakness on my left side, balance problems, torn muscles, etc. I had memory loss in there as well, some which has come back to me even recently. So pain and being

uncomfortable are pretty normal every day things for me, hard to sort out what-is-what at times. I have also developed an abnormally high threshold of pain, I block out things like ear aches so by the time I get to the doc, I'm usually in bad shape. So hang in there and let's all hope that '06 brings good things for all of us. Rob

[Guest guest]

I was on a TBI site a few years ago, but was getting nothing out of

it. I'm pretty stable, the last orthopedic said I'm as strong as a

bull, the main concern was my side-to-side balance of strength or

whether they'd take my right leg off below the knee. But the

circlulation has improved over the years. I'm not supposed to get too

stressed or over-tired. The tingle burn is deffo nerve damage, I have

my share of that too. I spent long hours in the gym over the years and

have gained strength that helps me with back and neck pain. I have to

get started up with that again, as soon as I get the word on my recent

blood work.

Rob

[Guest guest]

I can relate to the joint pains..as Ive had hep C prob 20 years and just turned 50. Went thru treatment and relapsed the month after the end of ribivarion- so wishing you well with it denise and , yew we are all in this together. AnnJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Well if you dont have to do it and have "other issues", I would wait too,, and keep us informed how you are doing,, WE are here for you hon jaxKATHRINE SWANSON <kathrines@...> wrote: I was going to start tx in Oct but did not because the liver biopsy came back pretty clean. I am glad I did not because of still recovering from brain injury. Things are good but I have trouble with

short-term memory and burning from nerve damage. The brain injury occurred the end of May and still having problems. Very hard to tell which is from the brain injury and which from hepc. So glad to have this group because the MDs don't seem to provide much info on either. I am on 900mg of Neurontin 4 times a day (3600 per day). Started having "break throughs" with the burning/tingling/freezing sensation on left side of body (worse on face, back and now hand). I really admire everyone on tx and what they are going through! KathyPS thanks for the special wish!Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: I totally know what you mean,,, I for years didnt know what was going on, but its the hep c,, hang in there,, have you dont tx yet or are you going to do it? hugs jaxKATHRINE SWANSON

<kathrines@...> wrote: Thanks for these postings. I have so much joint pain now it is amazing! I turned 51 today and did not know if this was part of the age. Hate to blame most of my problems on hepc but glad to know there is nothing new going bad.KathyJackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Mark Well bing 51 myself, NORMAL aging does not include joint pains at this age,, its the hep c ,, as there is a huge connection between hep c and arthritis and joint issues. Once you clear the virus, usually the joint issues are "supposed" to clear up. lol,, well thats what they say anyway... Keep us posted how you are doing hon... mark_pbms

<frazier080599@...> wrote: Hi ,Glad to hear you cleared at 12 weeks, that's good news and hopefullythere will be no relapse to deal with.I've probably had this for over 20 years too. On my last visit withthe GI he actually mentioned continuing treatment beyond 24 weeks if Icleared also...just to be safe. I told him I'd like to wait until weget there to make that decision, see how I'm dealing with things first.LOL - I know what you mean about the joint pains. I'm almost 50 myselfand it will definitely be hard to tell which pains are the meds andwhich are normal aging. Thanks for the reply,Mark>> I had Type 2a for 20+ years with virtually no liver damage. My

doc> monitored me annually and wanted to wait for the Pegasys version of> the interferon to become available. He finally said last May "It's> time". > > I started tx in July, did my final shot last Friday and will take my> last dose of Riba tomorrow. I cleared at 12 weeks, and hope to stay> that way. Doc wanted me to do additional 8 weeks to insure against> relapse, but the insurance company said no. They will test me after> one month and have said if I'm going to relapse, it will probably be> in the first month. > > The side effects were manageable, but these past few weeks have been> rough with the arthritis/joint pain. I don't know how much of that is> the meds, or the cold weather - but I've never had this pain before! > (Of course I turned 50 in June.... LOL)> > I used Curascript mail order pharmacy, and they were very

good. The> meds were always delivered on time, and I was very happy with their> service. > > Jackie Jackie

DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less

[Guest guest]

I am 'a little late to the party,' but I totally know whereof you type. I

too have both TBI and HCV, and it is no picnic. Either one is not for

wussies, and the combo is more than I would wish on my worst enemy.

I don't know what is what either. Neither do the Drs. No one does. Not

with the pain issues, not with the cognitive stuff. When someone has both,

that's just the way it is.

Hang in.

Wicked / Robin A. Vosburg, not doing Tx

" Because, sometimes, merely refusing to stop cultivating an unquenchable

lust for beauty and truth and orgasmic life is the most profound and

important thing you can resolve to do. " -- Mark Morford

-----Original Message-----

I'm also a TBI (traumatic brain injury) survivor [snip]

Rob