Returning to fitness.

[joemac]

I've just finished 12 weeks rib sovaldi and inerferon and have been off the meds for 4 weeks now but after 2 hours work still seeing stars, getting the shakes and feeling spent. Anyone have similar and how long till back to normal fitness levels I' m 51 and landscape gardener. Thanks.

[scott]

I was on that very treatment. I think results vary from person to person, with me it ebbed away slowly. upon completion I could do minimal work andneeded a great deal of rest and after 2 months or so results were improving exponentially to the point where 6 months later I could perform 2 hour strenuous fitness workouts every other day. Pace yourself and let it happen progressively without over-exertion.

[KimInTheForest]

Hello Joemac. How are you doing now, 2 weeks after your posting? Better, I hope.

I have read in multiple sources that Ribavirin can take up to 6 months to leave the body after end of treatment, and that some degree of Ribavirin side effects can occur throughout that time. (This is why the manufacturer's info on Ribavirin stipulates that women must not become pregnant for at least 6 months after end of treatment - the drug may still be in the body.) My understanding is that Ribavarin leaves the blood and even the cells pretty quickly, but that it lingers in the interstitial spaces/fluid between cells - potentially for months. If it were me (and it may be soon), I would probably be trying techniques that help the body clear toxins more quickly - sweating, saunas, epsom salt baths, exercise, drinking plenty of water. Also anything that aids the lymphatic system in clearing stuff out - movement mainly, and certain Qigong exercises.  I would maybe try foods that have chelation properties like cilantro, onions, garlic. Chelation is for removing heavy metals from body. Not sure if it would be relevant for a drug like Ribavirin.

Good luck, and keep us posted on your progress!
Kim

[Mike]

A good rule of thumb - for every month on Interferon and Ribavirin - it takes two months to clear all the side effects (12 week tx = 6 months).

I've been on INTF+RIBV twice, and the rule coincides with my experience.

Best wishes, Mike

[joemac]

Thanks Scott Mike and Kim I am feeling stronger now thanks, managing to be active for the whole day and only really suffering after heavy work. I'm laying a patio at the moment but being saved by the weather so far. I can feel the difference with each passing week now which is encouraging but that first month of post treatment limbo was a shock. Thanks for your advice.

[scott]

keep on keeping on as it were! That first month is the worse by far, you will feel better with each passing week! Sunny days are at hand!