Author Topic: Inactive (Read 54607 times)

Unsure86 · « **on:** July 16, 2014, 11:46:25 pm »

About 3 years ago when I was pregnant with my daughter I found out I had hep c on the second appt to check for the virus am sure the doctor was telling me I kept catching it and fighting it off can't be sure as my ex was making it hard to hear when I left him after my daughter was born I had my dr test me again after 6 months she said I was inactive and that the only way to get it again was to catch it but when I went to another dr in that practice he told me it could come back on its own so my question is who is right?

lporterrn · « **Reply #1 on:** July 16, 2014, 11:50:52 pm »

The first doc was right

Unsure86 · « **Reply #2 on:** July 16, 2014, 11:53:46 pm »

Thank god that's good news it crosses my mind all the time

zain · « **Reply #3 on:** July 17, 2014, 04:42:52 am »

I'd say you're among the 15-20% lucky HCV patients out there who clear the virus at acute stage on their own. It seems like your immune system cleared the virus and it can never come back unless you catch it again.

I'd also suggest you to have a HCV RNA Qualitative test performed on your blood sample to be sure about the presence of that virus.

Wish you best of luck :-) ..

Unsure86 · « **Reply #4 on:** July 20, 2014, 10:30:52 pm »

I'm even more confused had more tests done and have fatty liver and the dr told me again that even if it was inactive it could come back he has referred me to a specialist

rainbowray · « **Reply #5 on:** July 21, 2014, 12:06:50 am »

Fatty liver can be caused by different things. Diet is the main culprit.
Perhaps the specialist will do a viral load as suggested.

Mike · « **Reply #6 on:** July 21, 2014, 06:23:20 pm »

The cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is not clear. Certain factors tend to increase risk, but in some cases, no risk factors show up. However, NAFLD tends to run in families. It also shows up most often in people who are middle-aged and overweight or obese. These people often have high cholesterol or triglycerides and diabetes or prediabetes (insulin resistance), as well.

Other potential causes of fatty liver disease include:

Medications
*Viral hepatitis
Autoimmune or inherited liver disease
Rapid weight loss
Malnutrition

Recent studies show that an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine and other changes in the intestine may be associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Some researchers now suspect this may play a role in the progression of NAFLD to NASH.

Alcohol causes a large percentage of fatty liver disease (known as alcohol liver disease).

Best wishes, Mike

Unsure86 · « **Reply #7 on:** July 27, 2014, 04:07:21 pm »

I'm really just hoping that the viral load comes back with nothing as for the past year I've been happy thinking it wasn't there I know the dr who told me it was inactive said I'd still test positive even though I don't have it so am not sure what tests she had me take she said I had antibodies but no sign of the virus does that mean she did a viral load test or did she test something else?

Mike · « **Reply #8 on:** July 27, 2014, 04:52:40 pm »

The first test in diagnosing a Hep-C infection, is to test for the Hep-C antibody. If this test is positive, it means that you have been exposed to the virus. This test is followed by a quantitative or qualitative viral load test to see if you have an active infection. If the test is positive for the presence of the Hep-C virus, the diagnosis of an acute or chronic Hep-C infection is made, meaning you have Hep-C.

In your case, it appears that you have the Hep-C antibody; but are not infected with virus. In simple terms, this means you do not have Hep-C - but were exposed to the virus somewhere down the line - and your immune system fought it off.

Research shows that 15-20% of individuals exposed to the Hep-C virus, clear it without developing an acute (less then 6 months) or a chronic (greater then 6 months) infection.

Please check this with your doctor; but it does not appear that you have Hep-C.

Best wishes, Mike

Unsure86 · « **Reply #9 on:** July 27, 2014, 05:10:17 pm »

I'm pretty sure when I was diagnosed in 2011 the dr was trying to tell me that it appeared that I kept getting hep c and my body was fighting it off but my ex was making it hard to listen to the dr. My ex is the reason I have this in the first place

Mike · « **Reply #10 on:** July 27, 2014, 05:35:15 pm »

To have Hep-C, the virus has to be present - not just the antibodies. The Hep-C virus survives by rabidly replicating it's self. Most folks who are chronically infected have a viral count in the millions. Hep-C virus replicates quickly and if an individual has an active infection, the virus WILL be delectable 12-24 weeks after exposure.

In your case, it appears you haven't had any delectable virus in over 3 years. This means you don't have Hepatitis C; period.

Consider this: if you were vaccinated against the measles virus, you will test positive for the measles antibody. However, you don't nor ever had the measles (you were just exposed to the virus).

The same is true with Hep-C. You were exposed sometime in your life (confirmed by the presence of the antibody) but never developed a chronic infection.

Please discuss this with your doctor if you are still concerned that you have Hep-C.

Best wishes, Mike

Unsure86 · « **Reply #11 on:** August 11, 2014, 09:46:44 am »

Just an update my infection has come back not sure how but dr said today that it could just come back like that which explains my fatty liver disease so I'm not part of the lucky ones to clear it I could not have caught it again as haven't been with anyone and had replaced all things like tooth brushes and shavers have an appt with a specialist in October was devistated when I got the news today he even said he'd spoke to the pathologist who had said that I'd come up clear of the infection in a previous blood test

lporterrn · « **Reply #12 on:** August 11, 2014, 11:06:02 am »

This is all very odd. Without looking at your labs, I don't get it. Hep C doesn't just come back unless there is a re-exposure or if the first tests are wrong or misinterpreted or clouded by another factor, that will yield false results. Do you have copies of your recent labs? If you are positive, then your daughter (don't know if you have other kids) will need to be tested - chances are extremely low (~5%), but needs to be done at some point.
So sorry you are going through this back and forth and traumatic time.

Unsure86 · « **Reply #13 on:** August 18, 2014, 05:28:45 am »

I have talked with a dr who explained in 2012 it is possible my viral load was so low it wasn't detected and well obviously now it is I have a viral load of 95,000 I think the dr said. As I have been trying to work out how I could have caught it again but was told it was possible it has always been there

lporterrn · « **Reply #14 on:** August 18, 2014, 03:59:22 pm »

This is perplexing. My guess is that the test/specimen was mishandled, and the negative test was wrong.

Unsure86 · « **Reply #15 on:** August 23, 2014, 07:47:51 am »

I know I will be able to ask the specialist this but would like to know what items need to go eg shavers nail clippers tweezers do I need to take out peircings?

lporterrn · « **Reply #16 on:** August 23, 2014, 12:35:58 pm »

I think you can clean those up with 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. No need to remove piercings, assuming they are not recent

Tess1971 · « **Reply #17 on:** August 23, 2014, 11:25:59 pm »

Does anyone know if after treatment you should replace things like toothbrushes, razors etc ??

Mike · « **Reply #18 on:** August 24, 2014, 05:49:37 am »

Although the possibility of self infection is very low, once you are virus free, there's still a chance.

When I became undetectable, I replaced everything. I did the same thing at the end of treatment. I was not willing to take any chances with Hep-C, regardless of how remote a possibility for self infection.

An once of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Best wishes, Mike

willie g · « **Reply #19 on:** August 29, 2014, 11:45:52 am »

Hi folks, GENO 1 solv oyliso. I had my 6 week APPT. With Dr and I am undetectable and my rest looks good, I still have that bulge in my side and the pain once in awhile plus other symptoms of before but not as intense. I asked my specialist how others were doing on these two MEDS. And he said "I DON'T know Willie,your THE first one." I laughed and he laughed and said "I am serious!" And he is a well known Dr in this area so I then got serious and told him how grateful I was and how they had worked hard with insurance because of other issues of my health.I not only walked out of there feeling special I looked up and said thanx. WILLIE g. Cicero, thxe FOR sharing, desertguy , sounds like your doing ok buddy, the weeks to come I will keep prayin for u but look at how far you have come! So folks we just keep hanging in there and we will be standing by Mike saying "another Dragon eats the DUST! GOD BE WITH YOU ALL as well as I. Willie g

Mike · « **Reply #20 on:** August 29, 2014, 12:27:33 pm »

Hey Willie G,

I was wondering where you were at. Haven't seen any post from you in a while.

I'm so glad these meds are working. A big, gigantic congrats!!!!!

Another dragon knocked to its knees! Another dragon headed to the bone yard!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY0WxgSXdEE

Best wishes, Mike

Bucky · « **Reply #21 on:** August 29, 2014, 01:41:45 pm »

Great news Willie G!
Bucky

willie g · « **Reply #22 on:** August 30, 2014, 02:01:46 am »

Quote from: willie g on August 29, 2014, 11:45:52 am

Hi folks, GENO 1 solv oyliso. I had my 6 week APPT. With Dr and I am undetectable and my rest looks good, I still have that bulge in my side and the pain once in awhile plus other symptoms of before but not as intense. I asked my specialist how others were doing on these two MEDS. And he said "I DON'T know Willie,your THE first one." I laughed and he laughed and said "I am serious!" And he is a well known Dr in this area so I then got serious and told him how grateful I was and how they had worked hard with insurance because of other issues of my health.I not only walked out of there feeling special I looked up and said thanx. WILLIE g. Cicero, thxe FOR sharing, desertguy , sounds like your doing ok buddy, the weeks to come I will keep prayin for u but look at how far you have come! So folks we just keep hanging in there and we will be standing by Mike saying "another Dragon eats the DUST! GOD BE WITH YOU ALL as well as I. Willie g

willie g · « **Reply #23 on:** August 30, 2014, 02:20:58 am »

Sorry,somehow I sent my own quote, my little girl on Facebook says I am getting better at typing and spelling.she has been watching over me in Wampsvile ny and the name of the town lives up to its name lol beautiful, but she has no internet. I was really getting isolated here,not going out etc. Sometimes I don't take my own advice. Again I'd like to thank you guys and gals for Everytthing, your story's, your. Strength and hopes and your dedication to still be on this site even when you have beat the Dragon. As long as I am around I will always BE around. WILLIE g

willie g · « **Reply #24 on:** August 30, 2014, 02:47:18 am »

Hi tess GOOD to hear your typing (seems like that to me when I see posts) funny you would ask that question, when I can I am at dollar store stocking up on toothbrushes ,little bottles of that gelly sanitizer etc. I am going to have quite a collection when I do go REST In peace. My family will be shaking THIER heads when looking for gold etc. And my belongings and find just a bunch of toothbrushes hand cleaner,itchy cream sunscreen etc. Stuck in all kinds of places. Ha ha I will leave them the receipts so when they take them back they can buy some Real goodies.lol Willie g

rainbowray · « **Reply #25 on:** August 30, 2014, 12:57:19 pm »

Willie G is undetected, well Kudos to you. I know it is not easy and you are not alone. I was undetected at 4 weeks and have 16 WEEKS to go. Your total is 12 weeks so count your blessings.

Tess1971 · « **Reply #26 on:** August 31, 2014, 05:29:50 pm »

I have just finished my first week today. Only complaint I have is the knot I feel in my stomach about an hour after taking the ribavirin and it stays around for a couple of hours no matter what I do. And I do itch on and off. I noticed that I have already lost 4 lbs from eating less too, down to 125 which is fine since I am only 5ft2. I will not be having any blood work done tile Oct 10 though. I am thinking very positive !!!

willie g · « **Reply #27 on:** September 01, 2014, 02:28:51 pm »

Hey Tess , gosh your a little one lol I have lost 21 ins but I am a grizzly bear so I am glad too. I hope you didn't throw your old clothes away lol. At least you'll be able to shop in the petet section plus the kids sections. Man your tiny. Anyway your getting there . I am sorry to hear about those dam cramps , ya know I've. Always been a drink hard , eat hard kind of guide and I use to always get up at night and sleep eat haha not much of that anymore which is good too I guess. Good hearing from you and you have a great week! Willie g

lporterrn · « **Reply #28 on:** September 02, 2014, 09:39:17 am »

Hi Tess - Oh I know that ribavirin knot well. Eventually I needed ativan because the knot became anxiety, however, it went away quickly after treatment was stopped. I love your attitude!

lporterrn · « **Reply #29 on:** September 02, 2014, 10:59:26 am »

I am doing the Snoopy dance because of your good news. Congratulations Willie!!!

Tess1971 · « **Reply #30 on:** September 02, 2014, 11:41:42 pm »

Eating some plain yogurt with a dash of maple syrup really works well for the knot. The itching is on and off worse sometimes, even got some rash. I always get some in summer when humid and hot but they seem intensified now......if it continues I will have to call dr. Ghee if you think I am small now I was smaller when young, I wore junior petites when in my teens. Now I wear just petites due to being short lol
I did wake up with headaches two days in a row this weekend, but, that seems to have passed with the rain front here, maybe it was just sinus, I will never know for sure. Any suggestions about rashes and itching?

lporterrn · « **Reply #31 on:** September 03, 2014, 09:08:43 am »

Rashes that are managed early are much easier to get under control. My doc prescribed hydroxyzine because benadryl makes me groggy. Some people do really well with benadryl. Anyway, I'd take a full one (low dose) at night, and a half in the daytime.

Tess1971 · « **Reply #32 on:** September 03, 2014, 01:10:01 pm »

So you found that only taking something internally worked? nothing topical?
Right now I am trying "Gold bond Body Lotion for itchy skin and rashes. It is a moisturizer and skin protect product - medicated even for poison ivy, eczema etc..
It has only been two days since I got it and it does relieve, but, not sure how long to give it. I will get some benadryl tomorrow if I do not see improvement and let dr know. I am one of those people who never take things as I did my share of wild things in late sixties and seventies (what a ride!!). Amazing I am as healthy as I am. Must be good genes - haha. Gotta have a sense of humor about all of this.

lporterrn · « **Reply #33 on:** September 03, 2014, 01:31:54 pm »

It depends on the severity of the problem. I didn't respond to the topical (both topical and oral take time), but did respond to the oral. In general, I let my doc guide me on this. I've seen very serious ribavirin rashes, and I didn't want to get stuck with one. Treatment is too miserable with it. Here is something to read: http://www.hcvadvocate.org/hepatitis/factsheets_pdf/SEM_Rashes.pdf

Tess1971 · « **Reply #34 on:** September 03, 2014, 07:58:05 pm »

I did call dr and he called in aterax, not sure of spelling. I will pick it up tomorrow.
I hope this works as the topical only give brief relief and it is really causing me to get edgy. itch itch itch its like my skin crawls.

willie g · « **Reply #35 on:** September 04, 2014, 01:39:31 am »

hi just for the heck of it I tried antifungal cream even though I don't have fungus[maybe some in my brain,ha ha] seems to help a lot,, dollar store willie g

Tess1971 · « **Reply #36 on:** September 06, 2014, 01:08:37 pm »

I am not using the script. Stuff is too scarry for me. As an analytical person who has used herbs, homeopathic etc since the 60s I decided to take a totally different approach and it is working beautifully!!!!! For anyone with skin issues this works great since our skin on these med is hypersensitive and many times a rebound effect occurs due to ingredients in commercial products, either overkill is happening or allergic reactions. I now wash with pure dead sea mineral salt soap and only put on my skin two products which are sold for babies. Since they are for use on infants also they are cleaner products as to ingredients and mild enough to use as much as wanted. After showering with mineral salt soap I want 20 minutes then use Aveeno Baby fragrance free Daily Moisturizer Lotion (contains Dimethicone protectant in lower dose and natural colloidal oatmeal. For real itchy rash spots I use Eucerin Baby Eczema Relief Body Creme with Oatmeal, Ceramide-3 and Licochalcone. It is working Great just after two days.

willie g · « **Reply #37 on:** September 07, 2014, 05:43:46 am »

Hey teas I now remember when one of my clients was all rashy the Dr wanted the staff to use Aveeno on her,non fragrance ,that was important,so they did and it did work wonders! Thanks for that info .I heads forgot completely. I will grab some because putting antifungal cream all over IS probably not to healthy lol but it does work. Maybe the MEDS they are giving us is really giving us a Fungas from extraterrestrials.,and they want to see if it works on humans.lol. Willie g

Tess1971 · « **Reply #38 on:** September 07, 2014, 11:55:02 am »

hahaha Willieg you are too funny!! The particular moisturizer after washing with dead sea mineral salt soap is working so well I am needing less of the Eucerin for Eczema for itch. I only seem to need to use it in the evening now.

Unsure86 · « **Reply #39 on:** October 22, 2014, 04:18:59 pm »

I just wanted to update everyone had my specialist appointment I have Genotype 3a the only treatment avaliable to me in australia at the moment due to other not being accepted by the pbs is interferon and ribavirin not sure at this point when treatment will start as had more tests done and have to see a nurse which he said would take approx 2 weeks then I can start so am feeling good am worried about my chances of success although my mum seems hopeful with the 66% cure rate

Worriedsick · « **Reply #40 on:** November 07, 2014, 02:34:22 pm »

Can I ask you all how long it took for your viral load test to come back?

rainbowray · « **Reply #41 on:** November 07, 2014, 02:49:33 pm »

Mine gets sent to my doctors office because it is entered in the group system. (California Pacific Medical). I go to the same lab.
I always call the Admin and she will mail it to me, or I come get it the day I call.
3-4 Days max.

Worriedsick · « **Reply #42 on:** November 07, 2014, 10:11:07 pm »

Thank you for your response rainbowray. I was curious because my blood work to test viral load was sent off 9 days ago and I have not gotten the results back yet. I am very scared and anxious because it is taking so long.

rainbowray · « **Reply #43 on:** November 08, 2014, 01:53:14 am »

Not so sure the length of time means anything, labs are all different. Doctors are different too.
I'm just aggressive, I always put CC to me on the lab requests, as a lot of labs will mail a copy to you, especially Quest.
If it is longer than usual for the lab, it probably is because someone screwed something up.

Picnic · « **Reply #44 on:** November 08, 2014, 04:05:29 pm »

Rainbowray is right 9 days is too long . Call and ask for results. This is your health and if you don't take charge no one else will!

penny · « **Reply #45 on:** November 08, 2014, 10:12:21 pm »

They took my VL on Monday and I had it on Wed.

Worriedsick · « **Reply #46 on:** November 09, 2014, 12:32:40 am »

I called on Friday and the doctor did not return my call. I am going to call again on Monday. Thank you everyone for your responses.

Unsure86 · « **Reply #47 on:** December 05, 2014, 02:30:23 am »

just wanted to let everyone know my treatment starts on Wednesday will be so glad when the next 6 months are over

badbradley · « **Reply #48 on:** December 07, 2014, 11:55:55 pm »

Hello unsure,
I have re-read your posts. I am assuming the treatment plan is still interferon/rib. You live in Australia. You've stated this is the only treatment available, as none of the newer meds are approved there yet. You are geno 3a, VL-95,000, fatty liver, treatment naïve. The treatment length is 6 mths.
I wish you the best with your treatment. Sorry these newer meds are not available to you. Take care of yourself-eat healthy, drink lots of water, try to exercise a little each day.
Many others have treated with those meds and have posted there experiences.
Hope all goes well with your treatment. Keep us posted.

Brad

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Author Topic: Inactive (Read 54607 times)