RE: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

[Guest guest]

Oh Gav,

Sorry you had such a bad time the first shot. Let me give you a little secret. On the day of shot, I literally wear myself out. Do all those little things that I know that will make me sleepy. Then I take my shot, and sleep off the side effects. And honey it does get better as the treatment goes. I am Genotype 1a and yes I have to do the whole 48 weeks. I have 7 more shots come monday, then I will be done. As of now I am still undetectable. So there is a positive side of treatment. Reaching that undetectable!!!

Be sure and let us know how you are doing honey. And remember we are here for you.

Love

JanetZ King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote:

Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shotFriday night. I have genotype 1a with a 220,000 viralload. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposedto be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what Idid. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headachekicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then Ispent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturdayall day, I had a headache that felt like someone shotmy brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know toomuch Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoingthat. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able tohold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'mdrinking as much water as my body can hold to ease thesymptoms. Been drinking water around the clock

sinceFriday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but I candeal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night wasthe night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At leastmy two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. Theyseem to know when I don't feel good and will snugglewith me in bed and bring me their toys.I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've beendating the past few months. When I told him why (thefallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, hefreaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind ofserious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tellhim in person. He's in total shock and is worried Igave it to him. That I can understand when peopledon't know much about the virus. He asked if I everplanned on telling him; I told him definitely--he hasthe right to know if the relationship gets serious.And I wanted to make sure I had all my

information,doctor lined up, and treatment plan in the works. Hesaid he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It isthe chance I have to take. But I don't want him tohang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. Iknow there are some people who have had the virus foryears, got married, had kids, and no one evercontacted it. I'm trying to remain positive aboutthat. He is a very special person to me, so I'll haveto wait and see.Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimatecrummy weekend. I look forward going into worktomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off ofthis...even if it is for a little bit.Gav __________________________________ - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a island never cries...- Simon

[Guest guest]

Yes it is a hard time;;;and sleeping it off is the best way to deal with it. I went thru the entire 48 weeks of peg-interferon and ribavarin. The virus was undetectable at 12 weeks. A month after I finished,theapy, however, the virus relapsed (with a vengeance) - quite devastating. So now, I am sitting back, not even knowing what step to take next . Has anyone else relapsed? Do you get back into therapy? IT is quite depressing.... But luck to those of you still in therapy - hope you are successful janet <doc_jade@...> wrote:

Oh Gav,

Sorry you had such a bad time the first shot. Let me give you a little secret. On the day of shot, I literally wear myself out. Do all those little things that I know that will make me sleepy. Then I take my shot, and sleep off the side effects. And honey it does get better as the treatment goes. I am Genotype 1a and yes I have to do the whole 48 weeks. I have 7 more shots come monday, then I will be done. As of now I am still undetectable. So there is a positive side of treatment. Reaching that undetectable!!!

Be sure and let us know how you are doing honey. And remember we are here for you.

Love

JanetZ King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote:

Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shotFriday night. I have genotype 1a with a 220,000 viralload. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposedto be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what Idid. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headachekicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then Ispent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturdayall day, I had a headache that felt like someone shotmy brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know toomuch Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoingthat. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able tohold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'mdrinking as much water as my body can hold to ease thesymptoms. Been drinking water around the clock

sinceFriday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but I candeal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night wasthe night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At leastmy two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. Theyseem to know when I don't feel good and will snugglewith me in bed and bring me their toys.I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've beendating the past few months. When I told him why (thefallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, hefreaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind ofserious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tellhim in person. He's in total shock and is worried Igave it to him. That I can understand when peopledon't know much about the virus. He asked if I everplanned on telling him; I told him definitely--he hasthe right to know if the relationship gets serious.And I wanted to make sure I had all my

information,doctor lined up, and treatment plan in the works. Hesaid he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It isthe chance I have to take. But I don't want him tohang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. Iknow there are some people who have had the virus foryears, got married, had kids, and no one evercontacted it. I'm trying to remain positive aboutthat. He is a very special person to me, so I'll haveto wait and see.Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimatecrummy weekend. I look forward going into worktomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off ofthis...even if it is for a little bit.Gav __________________________________ - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.

I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a island never cries...- Simon

FareChase - Search multiple travel sites in one click.

[Guest guest]

Perky Rose,

This is my second round of treatment. First time through, I did the peg-intron and the rebetrol. Although I kicked the heck out of the virus, I did not achieve undetectable level. This time, I was undetectable at 12 weeks and been so every since. (I am doing the pegasy and co-pegasy)

My doctor said that if I relapse then we are going to do the maintaince program. That is one shot a week of the pegasy. But I got news for him. I intend to stay undetectable. LOL

Love

Janetperky rose <agann_01@...> wrote:

Yes it is a hard time;;;and sleeping it off is the best way to deal with it. I went thru the entire 48 weeks of peg-interferon and ribavarin. The virus was undetectable at 12 weeks. A month after I finished,theapy, however, the virus relapsed (with a vengeance) - quite devastating. So now, I am sitting back, not even knowing what step to take next . Has anyone else relapsed? Do you get back into therapy? IT is quite depressing.... But luck to those of you still in therapy - hope you are successful janet <doc_jade@...> wrote:

Oh Gav,

Sorry you had such a bad time the first shot. Let me give you a little secret. On the day of shot, I literally wear myself out. Do all those little things that I know that will make me sleepy. Then I take my shot, and sleep off the side effects. And honey it does get better as the treatment goes. I am Genotype 1a and yes I have to do the whole 48 weeks. I have 7 more shots come monday, then I will be done. As of now I am still undetectable. So there is a positive side of treatment. Reaching that undetectable!!!

Be sure and let us know how you are doing honey. And remember we are here for you.

Love

JanetZ King <gavriella_rachel@...> wrote:

Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shotFriday night. I have genotype 1a with a 220,000 viralload. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposedto be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what Idid. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headachekicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then Ispent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturdayall day, I had a headache that felt like someone shotmy brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know toomuch Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoingthat. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able tohold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'mdrinking as much water as my body can hold to ease thesymptoms. Been drinking water around the clock

sinceFriday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but I candeal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night wasthe night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At leastmy two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. Theyseem to know when I don't feel good and will snugglewith me in bed and bring me their toys.I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've beendating the past few months. When I told him why (thefallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, hefreaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind ofserious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tellhim in person. He's in total shock and is worried Igave it to him. That I can understand when peopledon't know much about the virus. He asked if I everplanned on telling him; I told him definitely--he hasthe right to know if the relationship gets serious.And I wanted to make sure I had all my

information,doctor lined up, and treatment plan in the works. Hesaid he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It isthe chance I have to take. But I don't want him tohang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. Iknow there are some people who have had the virus foryears, got married, had kids, and no one evercontacted it. I'm trying to remain positive aboutthat. He is a very special person to me, so I'll haveto wait and see.Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimatecrummy weekend. I look forward going into worktomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off ofthis...even if it is for a little bit.Gav __________________________________ - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.

I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a island never cries...- Simon

FareChase - Search multiple travel sites in one click. I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a island never cries...- Simon

[Guest guest]

The chances of transmission through sex are really low , almost nil . I have been married for too many years to remember and my husband is still negative for the virus as are my kids . I had 4 of my children after my diagnosis . If nausea is a big problem you should ask your doctor for Zophran , it works great for the nausea on shot night . I had to take imitrex for the headaches , they seem to be bad on treatment . All your side effects can be managed by your doctor all you have to do is tell him about them .. I hope you feel better and I hope this guy calls you back .

First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shotFriday night. I have genotype 1a with a 220,000 viralload. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposedto be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what Idid. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headachekicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then Ispent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturdayall day, I had a headache that felt like someone shotmy brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know toomuch Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoingthat. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able tohold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'mdrinking as much water as my body can hold to ease thesymptoms. Been drinking water around the clock sinceFriday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but I candeal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night wasthe night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At leastmy two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. Theyseem to know when I don't feel good and will snugglewith me in bed and bring me their toys.I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've beendating the past few months. When I told him why (thefallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, hefreaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind ofserious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tellhim in person. He's in total shock and is worried Igave it to him. That I can understand when peopledon't know much about the virus. He asked if I everplanned on telling him; I told him definitely--he hasthe right to know if the relationship gets serious.And I wanted to make sure I had all my information,doctor lined up, and treatment plan in the works. Hesaid he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It isthe chance I have to take. But I don't want him tohang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. Iknow there are some people who have had the virus foryears, got married, had kids, and no one evercontacted it. I'm trying to remain positive aboutthat. He is a very special person to me, so I'll haveto wait and see.Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimatecrummy weekend. I look forward going into worktomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off ofthis...even if it is for a little bit.Gav __________________________________ - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.

[Guest guest]

Liz I agree with what your saying but I'm working on

education. I think it's important to say that HCV is

transmissible through sex. There is that 1 to 4%

figure that the CDC states. That amounts to a whole

lot of folks. And we want people to tune into the fact

that HCV rates are growing quickly. If we play down

the sex angle, it will remain a junkie's disease. It's

only when people realize that HCV can happen to

anybody (even the straight, never do drugs crowd) that

our disease will come out of the closet. i am just

learning this myself. AIDS was a queer disease and no

one cared until straight people realized they could

get it too. AIDS gets all the money and we get none.

ric

[Guest guest]

Hmmm how to respond , LOL The CDC's numbers are estimates and not based on fact . And the fact is , is that hepatitis c rarely is transmitted through sex , there is a higher number of verical transmission rates . I am an advocate and participate in Marching , fundraising , and other other areas of Hepatitis C education . I myself have never thought of this disease as being a junkies disease because I was infected from work (dirty needle stick) and I have met more health care workers infected than I have drug addicts . But I can see your point . But I just have a problem telling people that they can catch hep c from having sex with an infected partner especially since the numbers are so low . By making sexual transmission a focal point you leave alot of people to scared to have relationships with infected people .

From: Ric

Hepatitis C

Sent: Sunday, October 30, 2005 10:22 AM

Subject: Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

Liz I agree with what your saying but I'm working oneducation. I think it's important to say that HCV istransmissible through sex. There is that 1 to 4%figure that the CDC states. That amounts to a wholelot of folks. And we want people to tune into the factthat HCV rates are growing quickly. If we play downthe sex angle, it will remain a junkie's disease. It'sonly when people realize that HCV can happen toanybody (even the straight, never do drugs crowd) thatour disease will come out of the closet. i am justlearning this myself. AIDS was a queer disease and noone cared until straight people realized they couldget it too. AIDS gets all the money and we get none.ric

[Guest guest]

ok lets use the lowest 1% estimate. thats 40,000

people. That is not a low or small amount. When I

heard a show not long ago, one of the first ways of

transmission he mentioned was sex. That got my hair

standing up too. But I think it was because he didn't

mention it was rare and hard to do. I think the IDU

percentage of HCV transmision rate of reported cases

is around 80% and is by far the majority. Thats what

the general population hears and thats what makes them

tune out. We know that the virus is mostly found in

the semen of co-infected,HIV-HCV homosexual men and

rarely in straight hetero men. So are we stretching a

point? maybe but how will we get past that barrier?

I'll tell you how the HIV infected gay men did it. by

telling the straights that they could get it too. And

White of course. but we don't have a . We

need money. We need help. We don't need to stay boxed

in a dark corner...r

[Guest guest]

I still think that the opportunity of infection through medical or

quasimedical routes is downplayed. Of course, the medical community doesn't

want to show itself as a risk factor, but I cannot begin to tell you how

many dentists don't pay attention to the infection vectors, even when I TELL

them that I am active chronic HCV. Sure, they wear gloves, but they don't

cover the light handles, and are constantly adjusting the lights. They

depend on their attendants to swap out instruments, but are the attendants

careful to not transfer? They usually are completely unaware of my HCV

status unless I tell them directly. And I've had to educate many as to what

HCV is, and what the infection risks are, and the cross contamination for

their tools and instruments.

And before I knew I had HCV? I'm sure I was infected since 1958. Dentists,

and even doctors, weren't aware of or practicing the safe procedures that

are happening today.

So, how many people in the world had dental procedures? How many before 1995

or so? Pretty much every adult, right? Why not focus on a broad area that is

a real fact?

What about the EEG I had when I was a teenager, where they actually poked

the needles into my head? What was the sterilization procedure between

patients? Reports exist linking infections via EEG procedures in the same

facility in some areas. Even endoscopy procedures, not to mention

colonoscopy procedures. Turned out that they discovered, through HCV

infections coming from the same facility, that there were some problems with

cleaning the equipment, separate from sterilization. These things are real.

How about the diabetes camp in Italy where the kids were coming down with

HCV after attending the camp? The staff weren't changing lancets between

the children. And this has occurred in the US in recent years, also. Not at

a camp, as I recall, but in a clinical setting.

Sally

Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die

(figuratively)

ok lets use the lowest 1% estimate. thats 40,000

people. That is not a low or small amount. When I

heard a show not long ago, one of the first ways of transmission he

mentioned was sex. That got my hair standing up too. But I think it was

because he didn't mention it was rare and hard to do. I think the IDU

percentage of HCV transmision rate of reported cases is around 80% and is by

far the majority. Thats what the general population hears and thats what

makes them tune out. We know that the virus is mostly found in the semen of

co-infected,HIV-HCV homosexual men and rarely in straight hetero men. So

are we stretching a point? maybe but how will we get past that barrier? I'll

tell you how the HIV infected gay men did it. by telling the straights that

they could get it too. And White of course. but we don't have a .

We need money. We need help. We don't need to stay boxed in a dark

corner...r

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]

Ric , do you ever participate in the HMA's March for Hepatitis C Awareness in DC ? You should add your voice to the growing number of us who are actively trying to get more funds for research and education .

Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

ok lets use the lowest 1% estimate. thats 40,000people. That is not a low or small amount. When Iheard a show not long ago, one of the first ways oftransmission he mentioned was sex. That got my hairstanding up too. But I think it was because he didn'tmention it was rare and hard to do. I think the IDUpercentage of HCV transmision rate of reported casesis around 80% and is by far the majority. Thats whatthe general population hears and thats what makes themtune out. We know that the virus is mostly found inthe semen of co-infected,HIV-HCV homosexual men andrarely in straight hetero men. So are we stretching apoint? maybe but how will we get past that barrier?I'll tell you how the HIV infected gay men did it. bytelling the straights that they could get it too. And White of course. but we don't have a . Weneed money. We need help. We don't need to stay boxedin a dark corner...r

[Guest guest]

Excellent points Sally . I was in the medical field before the paramedics used gloves with every patient . I had no ideal that little needle that poked me would kill me . They taught us about hepatitis b and never said a word about non a non b or even hep a ......

RE: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

I still think that the opportunity of infection through medical orquasimedical routes is downplayed. Of course, the medical community doesn'twant to show itself as a risk factor, but I cannot begin to tell you howmany dentists don't pay attention to the infection vectors, even when I TELLthem that I am active chronic HCV. Sure, they wear gloves, but they don'tcover the light handles, and are constantly adjusting the lights. Theydepend on their attendants to swap out instruments, but are the attendantscareful to not transfer? They usually are completely unaware of my HCVstatus unless I tell them directly. And I've had to educate many as to whatHCV is, and what the infection risks are, and the cross contamination fortheir tools and instruments.And before I knew I had HCV? I'm sure I was infected since 1958. Dentists,and even doctors, weren't aware of or practicing the safe procedures thatare happening today.So, how many people in the world had dental procedures? How many before 1995or so? Pretty much every adult, right? Why not focus on a broad area that isa real fact?What about the EEG I had when I was a teenager, where they actually pokedthe needles into my head? What was the sterilization procedure betweenpatients? Reports exist linking infections via EEG procedures in the samefacility in some areas. Even endoscopy procedures, not to mentioncolonoscopy procedures. Turned out that they discovered, through HCVinfections coming from the same facility, that there were some problems withcleaning the equipment, separate from sterilization. These things are real.How about the diabetes camp in Italy where the kids were coming down withHCV after attending the camp? The staff weren't changing lancets betweenthe children. And this has occurred in the US in recent years, also. Not ata camp, as I recall, but in a clinical setting. Sally-----Original Message-----From: Hepatitis C [mailto:Hepatitis C ] On Behalf Of RicSent: Sunday, October 30, 2005 11:58 AMHepatitis C Subject: Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die(figuratively)ok lets use the lowest 1% estimate. thats 40,000people. That is not a low or small amount. When Iheard a show not long ago, one of the first ways of transmission hementioned was sex. That got my hair standing up too. But I think it wasbecause he didn't mention it was rare and hard to do. I think the IDUpercentage of HCV transmision rate of reported cases is around 80% and is byfar the majority. Thats what the general population hears and thats whatmakes them tune out. We know that the virus is mostly found in the semen ofco-infected,HIV-HCV homosexual men and rarely in straight hetero men. Soare we stretching a point? maybe but how will we get past that barrier? I'lltell you how the HIV infected gay men did it. by telling the straights thatthey could get it too. And White of course. but we don't have a .We need money. We need help. We don't need to stay boxed in a darkcorner...rIt's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you have foundthe support you need with us. If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group, justclick the link-- Hepatitis C/Happy Posting

[Guest guest]

I can totally relate. I agree with you that all of these are possibilities

that are often overlooked, especially for those of us who have 'been there,

done that' medically speaking and have been subjected to a variety of

invasive procedures over the years.

I'm pushing 57 (strange words from someone who wasn't expected to live long

enough to be born), and I've had a bunch: those EEGs with the screw-in

leads, several endoscopies, numerous other invasive medical procedures,

numerous dental procedures.

I'm not ruling out anything, but I'm leaning toward my ex-husband as the

source. (I have my reasons.)

Wicked / Robin A. Vosburg

" Close your eyes, take a deep breath, check out the long view. Hey, it's the

universe: It's not supposed to make sense. " -- Mark Morford

>-----Original Message-----

>

>I still think that the opportunity of infection through

>medical or quasimedical routes is downplayed. Of course, the

>medical community doesn't want to show itself as a risk

>factor, but I cannot begin to tell you how many dentists don't

>pay attention to the infection vectors [snip]

>are the attendants careful to not transfer? [snip]

>

>So, how many people in the world had dental procedures? How

>many before 1995 or so? Pretty much every adult, right? Why

>not focus on a broad area that is a real fact?

>

>What about the EEG I had when I was a teenager, where they

>actually poked the needles into my head? What was the

>sterilization procedure between patients? Reports exist

>linking infections via EEG procedures in the same facility in

>some areas. Even endoscopy procedures, not to mention

>colonoscopy procedures. Turned out that they discovered,

>through HCV infections coming from the same facility, that

>there were some problems with cleaning the equipment, separate

>from sterilization. These things are real.

>

>[snip]

>

>Sally

>

[Guest guest]

Dont forget your hairdresser, manicurist too,, lots of salons do NOT do a thorough job of cleaning and sterilizing the manicure and pedicure equipment and some states still allow techs to cut cuticles, callouses etc, with sharp shavers that usually are NOT cleaned properly.. When I worked in the salon, I was so careful,, every ONE of my clients had their OWN supplies, labled and kept safe inbetween visits,, and never used on anyone else, and thank God I never cut anyone,,never cut cuticles nor shaved callouses as in Oregon it is illegal to do those things.. but your hairdresser could technically cut both of you when you are getting your haircut and infect,, this was before I even knew I had it,, so Im so thankful and I BELIEVE I never infected anyone...Thank God!

just more poinst put out there,

love ya all

jaxelizabethnv1 <elizabethnv1@...> wrote:

Excellent points Sally . I was in the medical field before the paramedics used gloves with every patient . I had no ideal that little needle that poked me would kill me . They taught us about hepatitis b and never said a word about non a non b or even hep a ......

RE: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

I still think that the opportunity of infection through medical orquasimedical routes is downplayed. Of course, the medical community doesn'twant to show itself as a risk factor, but I cannot begin to tell you howmany dentists don't pay attention to the infection vectors, even when I TELLthem that I am active chronic HCV. Sure, they wear gloves, but they don'tcover the light handles, and are constantly adjusting the lights. Theydepend on their attendants to swap out instruments, but are the attendantscareful to not transfer? They usually are completely unaware of my HCVstatus unless I tell them directly. And I've had to educate many as to whatHCV is, and what the infection risks are, and the cross contamination fortheir tools and instruments.And before I knew I had HCV? I'm sure I was infected since 1958. Dentists,and even doctors, weren't aware of or practicing the safe procedures thatare happening

today.So, how many people in the world had dental procedures? How many before 1995or so? Pretty much every adult, right? Why not focus on a broad area that isa real fact?What about the EEG I had when I was a teenager, where they actually pokedthe needles into my head? What was the sterilization procedure betweenpatients? Reports exist linking infections via EEG procedures in the samefacility in some areas. Even endoscopy procedures, not to mentioncolonoscopy procedures. Turned out that they discovered, through HCVinfections coming from the same facility, that there were some problems withcleaning the equipment, separate from sterilization. These things are real.How about the diabetes camp in Italy where the kids were coming down withHCV after attending the camp? The staff weren't changing lancets betweenthe children. And this has occurred in the US in recent years, also. Not ata camp, as I recall, but in a

clinical setting. Sally-----Original Message-----From: Hepatitis C [mailto:Hepatitis C ] On Behalf Of RicSent: Sunday, October 30, 2005 11:58 AMHepatitis C Subject: Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die(figuratively)ok lets use the lowest 1% estimate. thats 40,000people. That is not a low or small amount. When Iheard a show not long ago, one of the first ways of transmission hementioned was sex. That got my hair standing up too. But I think it wasbecause he didn't mention it was rare and hard to do. I think the IDUpercentage of HCV transmision rate of reported cases is around 80% and is byfar the majority. Thats what the general population hears and thats whatmakes them tune out. We know that the virus is mostly found in the semen ofco-infected,HIV-HCV homosexual men and rarely

in straight hetero men. Soare we stretching a point? maybe but how will we get past that barrier? I'lltell you how the HIV infected gay men did it. by telling the straights thatthey could get it too. And White of course. but we don't have a .We need money. We need help. We don't need to stay boxed in a darkcorner...rIt's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you have foundthe support you need with us. If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group, justclick the link-- Hepatitis C/Happy Posting

[Guest guest]

Yep, and what are the transmissions of those infected like me ,, from the American Red Cross? They knew they had a nona non b in the blood but gave it anyway,, sheesh,,elizabethnv1 <elizabethnv1@...> wrote:

Hmmm how to respond , LOL The CDC's numbers are estimates and not based on fact . And the fact is , is that hepatitis c rarely is transmitted through sex , there is a higher number of verical transmission rates . I am an advocate and participate in Marching , fundraising , and other other areas of Hepatitis C education . I myself have never thought of this disease as being a junkies disease because I was infected from work (dirty needle stick) and I have met more health care workers infected than I have drug addicts . But I can see your point . But I just have a problem telling people that they can catch hep c from having sex with an infected partner especially since the numbers are so low . By making sexual transmission a focal point you leave alot of people to scared to have relationships with infected people .

From: Ric

Hepatitis C

Sent: Sunday, October 30, 2005 10:22 AM

Subject: Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die (figuratively)

Liz I agree with what your saying but I'm working oneducation. I think it's important to say that HCV istransmissible through sex. There is that 1 to 4%figure that the CDC states. That amounts to a wholelot of folks. And we want people to tune into the factthat HCV rates are growing quickly. If we play downthe sex angle, it will remain a junkie's disease. It'sonly when people realize that HCV can happen toanybody (even the straight, never do drugs crowd) thatour disease will come out of the closet. i am justlearning this myself. AIDS was a queer disease and noone cared until straight people realized they couldget it too. AIDS gets all the money and we get none.ricJackie

[Guest guest]

you know, I would be more interested in telling people

the current risks of catching HCV. Some of those you

mention are still current. In telling people to get

tested, it would be helpful to mention those past

risks. Yes,they are still here, but most businesses

and medical practices are up to date. Speculating

about how we got this disease is the least important

part. Getting people tested is.

[Guest guest]

Ric,

These risks ARE ongoing. I have to battle doctor offices and dental offices

all the time about taking HCV virus seriously. They want to think its passed

by sexual transmission, and we aren't having sex there. Or that its *only*

transfusion. And the current blood supply is safe. <maybe>

I agree that getting tested is important. I'd like to know that my doctor,

my dentist, and their staff persons are tested, too.

Sal

Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die

(figuratively)

you know, I would be more interested in telling people

the current risks of catching HCV. Some of those you

mention are still current. In telling people to get

tested, it would be helpful to mention those past

risks. Yes,they are still here, but most businesses

and medical practices are up to date. Speculating

about how we got this disease is the least important

part. Getting people tested is.

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]

Sally,

I totally agree,, you know when I was in the hospital when I had my gallbladder removed last week,, NONE of the ppl who came in except ONE nurse when she emptied my drain tube ever wore gloves,, not even the doc when he took my drain tube OUT... when the RN started my IV in the waiting area just before I went into the OR ( the original IV was a butterfly, sheesh,, and it infiltrated) she started another IV WITHOUT GLOVES,,, I told her to put them on,, I mean, sheesh,, I HAVE HEP,, its in remission but still!!!!

I refuse to go to any dentist until after I research and check out just HOW they clean and sterilize the equipment,, I HAVE to see the autoclaved instruements before they are opened and put on my tray... IM adamant about THAT...and altho I would love to have a manicure and pedicure while Im here, I wont cuz I dont know just how they sterilize their equipment... I had to wash my equipment in hot soapy water, rinse it, let it air dry, then it went into high level disinfectant that was antifungal, antiviral, anti bacterial for at least 15 min if the level was right and then rinse and let air dry... but all the stuff that was disposable such as emery boards, pusher sticks etc, I either gave them TO each client or if they were a regular client, each person had their own air tight pack to keep their stuff separate from the others and was never used on anyone else... After I did a pedicure,, the tub was washed and rinsed twice with hot soapy water,, then I put in the high level

disinfectant, let it circulate with the jets on for at least 15 min,, then rinsed it twice with hot water,, and then let dry... I never felt even with that that it was clear enough but I never cut anyone,, but I didnt know about my partner who was also sharing the tub with me.. I could only hope she did the same as I did because I was booked so tight that I wouldnt have had time to do the cleaning before,, only after,,, nearly drove me crazy and I didnt know I had hep then,,, only several years later... sigh...

take care,

jaxSally Hines <shines@...> wrote:

Ric,These risks ARE ongoing. I have to battle doctor offices and dental officesall the time about taking HCV virus seriously. They want to think its passedby sexual transmission, and we aren't having sex there. Or that its *only*transfusion. And the current blood supply is safe. <maybe>I agree that getting tested is important. I'd like to know that my doctor,my dentist, and their staff persons are tested, too.Sal-----Original Message-----From: Hepatitis C [mailto:Hepatitis C ] On Behalf Of RicSent: Sunday, October 30, 2005 7:24 PMHepatitis C Subject: Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die(figuratively)you know, I would be more interested in telling peoplethe current risks of catching

HCV. Some of those youmention are still current. In telling people to gettested, it would be helpful to mention those pastrisks. Yes,they are still here, but most businessesand medical practices are up to date. Speculatingabout how we got this disease is the least importantpart. Getting people tested is.It's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you have foundthe support you need with us. If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group, justclick the link-- Hepatitis C/Happy Posting

[Guest guest]

ok ladies I agree. we're talking about real

possibilities here. What I'm trying to say is the

policies and procedures are established to keep these

risks at a minimum. If there not followed and there

is a case, it's because of human failure. The red

cross can't guarantee every bag of blood is safe.

Condoms can stop an STTD, but not ALWAYS. How much is

the risk here compared to sex? Especially unprotected.

It's all worthy of being talked about, I agree. In one

of these areas you have more control than the others,

and thats sex. Possible risk is everywhere. How

freaked out out do you want to be about it?

ps. Jax, how can you ever leave the house?? Just

kidding but you do seem a little overcautious....r

and BTW, really hoping you are ok.

[Guest guest]

Ric,

The point I'm trying to make is that these risks are much more common, and

probably more likely the infection method of the percentage of " unknonwn "

than sex is. And frankly the policies and procedures for safe sex are

established also. The likelihood of infection from my dentist is much higher

than the likelihood of infection from even unprotected sex with me. It does

no one any service by promoting something that isn't a real threat over

something that's not very real.

Anyone remember the old movies about the evils of Marijuana years ago? How

the use of the weed would ALWAYS lead to profigate sex and hard drug

addiction? Then we all realized that the movies were lies, or primarily

lies. I mean, *I* never got any profligate sex off of a joint, did you? More

likely for me off a bottle of wine. Anyway, since the movies were a lie,

then the other drug warnings must be lies too.

Careful you don't get us all bit in the butt with that sex transmission

thing, ric.

Sal

RE: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die

(figuratively)

ok ladies I agree. we're talking about real

possibilities here. What I'm trying to say is the

policies and procedures are established to keep these

risks at a minimum. If there not followed and there

is a case, it's because of human failure. The red

cross can't guarantee every bag of blood is safe.

Condoms can stop an STTD, but not ALWAYS. How much is

the risk here compared to sex? Especially unprotected.

It's all worthy of being talked about, I agree. In one

of these areas you have more control than the others,

and thats sex. Possible risk is everywhere. How

freaked out out do you want to be about it?

ps. Jax, how can you ever leave the house?? Just

kidding but you do seem a little overcautious....r

and BTW, really hoping you are ok.

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]

Oh Im ok, I think,,, will have to have the blood test for PBC next week,, and I am praying that I am negative for that,, what a depression I will sink into if I have that after all I have done to put this hep dragon in the mud..lol...

yes ric, I do go out,, I just am very careful about anything that could cause ME to bleed and possibly infect anyone ELSE... just being very careful,, lol

hugs to ya hon

jaxRic <richobbs1@...> wrote:

ok ladies I agree. we're talking about realpossibilities here. What I'm trying to say is thepolicies and procedures are established to keep theserisks at a minimum. If there not followed and thereis a case, it's because of human failure. The redcross can't guarantee every bag of blood is safe. Condoms can stop an STTD, but not ALWAYS. How much isthe risk here compared to sex? Especially unprotected.It's all worthy of being talked about, I agree. In oneof these areas you have more control than the others,and thats sex. Possible risk is everywhere. Howfreaked out out do you want to be about it?ps. Jax, how can you ever leave the house?? Justkidding but you do seem a little overcautious....rand BTW, really hoping you are

ok.Jackie

[Guest guest]

--hi, Same thing happened to me. 48 weeks with pegasys/ribavirin.

No virus at 3 months, 212,000 at 6 months then at the end no virus.

But 6 months later 15,000,000; off the scale I guess. I'm type 1-A

and get another biopsy Wednesday, first in over three years. Got my

fingers crossed.

- In Hepatitis C , perky rose <agann_01@y...>

wrote:

>

> Yes it is a hard time;;;and sleeping it off is the best way to

deal with it. I went thru the entire 48 weeks of peg-interferon and

ribavarin. The virus was undetectable at 12 weeks. A month after I

finished,theapy, however, the virus relapsed (with a vengeance) -

quite devastating. So now, I am sitting back, not even knowing what

step to take next . Has anyone else relapsed? Do you get back into

therapy? IT is quite depressing.... But luck to those of you still

in therapy - hope you are successful

>

> janet <doc_jade@y...> wrote:Oh Gav,

> Sorry you had such a bad time the first shot. Let me give you a

little secret. On the day of shot, I literally wear myself out. Do

all those little things that I know that will make me sleepy. Then I

take my shot, and sleep off the side effects. And honey it does get

better as the treatment goes. I am Genotype 1a and yes I have to do

the whole 48 weeks. I have 7 more shots come monday, then I will be

done. As of now I am still undetectable. So there is a positive side

of treatment. Reaching that undetectable!!!

> Be sure and let us know how you are doing honey. And remember we

are here for you.

> Love

> Janet

>

> Z King <gavriella_rachel@y...> wrote:

> Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shot

> Friday night. I have genotype 1a with a 220,000 viral

> load. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.

>

> I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposed

> to be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what I

> did. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headache

> kicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then I

> spent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.

> Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturday

> all day, I had a headache that felt like someone shot

> my brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know too

> much Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoing

> that. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able to

> hold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'm

> drinking as much water as my body can hold to ease the

> symptoms. Been drinking water around the clock since

> Friday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.

>

> I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but I can

> deal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night was

> the night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At least

> my two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. They

> seem to know when I don't feel good and will snuggle

> with me in bed and bring me their toys.

>

> I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've been

> dating the past few months. When I told him why (the

> fallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, he

> freaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind of

> serious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tell

> him in person. He's in total shock and is worried I

> gave it to him. That I can understand when people

> don't know much about the virus. He asked if I ever

> planned on telling him; I told him definitely--he has

> the right to know if the relationship gets serious.

> And I wanted to make sure I had all my information,

> doctor lined up, and treatment plan in the works. He

> said he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.

>

> And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It is

> the chance I have to take. But I don't want him to

> hang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. I

> know there are some people who have had the virus for

> years, got married, had kids, and no one ever

> contacted it. I'm trying to remain positive about

> that. He is a very special person to me, so I'll have

> to wait and see.

>

> Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimate

> crummy weekend. I look forward going into work

> tomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off of

> this...even if it is for a little bit.

>

> Gav

>

>

>

>

>

> __________________________________

> - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005

> http://mail.

>

>

> I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a island

never cries...- Simon

>

>

> 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]

Ok Ok Jax, Lighten Up! You got me scasred to go out after all that.

Oh wait, thats cuz its Halloween LOL!!!

SCARRRRYYY HUUUGGZZZZ, COUNT MARCULA

> Ric,

>

> These risks ARE ongoing. I have to battle doctor offices and

dental offices

> all the time about taking HCV virus seriously. They want to think

its passed

> by sexual transmission, and we aren't having sex there. Or that

its *only*

> transfusion. And the current blood supply is safe. <maybe>

>

> I agree that getting tested is important. I'd like to know that my

doctor,

> my dentist, and their staff persons are tested, too.

>

> Sal

>

> Re: First TX shot--Thought I was

going to die

> (figuratively)

>

>

>

> you know, I would be more interested in telling people

> the current risks of catching HCV. Some of those you

> mention are still current. In telling people to get

> tested, it would be helpful to mention those past

> risks. Yes,they are still here, but most businesses

> and medical practices are up to date. Speculating

> about how we got this disease is the least important

> part. Getting people tested is.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> 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]

well Willian and Rose,, Im so sorry,, I was/am geno 1a too and I spoke with Dr. Cecil and he advised becasue I was stage 3-4 with early cirrhosis that I should do at least 48 weeks AFTER I tested undetectible.. so I was shooting for 60 weeks, but only made 54,, ended up in the hospital needing 2 units of packed red cells as my hemoglobin dropped to 7.0, RBCS and WBCS were both down to 1.0... made me really mad cuz I got this exactly 27 years ago TODAY when I had my first child and I hemmorrhaged and had to have 4 units of blood after delivery...

so happy birthday to my son and to my liver,, sigh,, br54930701 <wreeves126@...> wrote:

--hi, Same thing happened to me. 48 weeks with pegasys/ribavirin. No virus at 3 months, 212,000 at 6 months then at the end no virus. But 6 months later 15,000,000; off the scale I guess. I'm type 1-A and get another biopsy Wednesday, first in over three years. Got my fingers crossed.- In Hepatitis C , perky rose <agann_01@y...> wrote:>> Yes it is a hard time;;;and sleeping it off is the best way to deal with it. I went thru the entire 48 weeks of peg-interferon and ribavarin. The virus was undetectable at 12 weeks. A month after I finished,theapy, however, the virus relapsed (with a vengeance) - quite devastating. So now, I am sitting back, not even knowing what step to take next . Has anyone else relapsed? Do you get back into therapy? IT is quite

depressing.... But luck to those of you still in therapy - hope you are successful > > janet <doc_jade@y...> wrote:Oh Gav,> Sorry you had such a bad time the first shot. Let me give you a little secret. On the day of shot, I literally wear myself out. Do all those little things that I know that will make me sleepy. Then I take my shot, and sleep off the side effects. And honey it does get better as the treatment goes. I am Genotype 1a and yes I have to do the whole 48 weeks. I have 7 more shots come monday, then I will be done. As of now I am still undetectable. So there is a positive side of treatment. Reaching that undetectable!!!> Be sure and let us know how you are doing honey. And remember we are here for you.> Love> Janet> > Z King <gavriella_rachel@y...> wrote:> Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shot> Friday night. I have genotype 1a

with a 220,000 viral> load. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.> > I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposed> to be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what I> did. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headache> kicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then I> spent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.> Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturday> all day, I had a headache that felt like someone shot> my brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know too> much Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoing> that. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able to> hold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'm> drinking as much water as my body can hold to ease the> symptoms. Been drinking water around the clock since> Friday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.> > I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but

I can> deal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night was> the night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At least> my two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. They> seem to know when I don't feel good and will snuggle> with me in bed and bring me their toys.> > I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've been> dating the past few months. When I told him why (the> fallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, he> freaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind of> serious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tell> him in person. He's in total shock and is worried I> gave it to him. That I can understand when people> don't know much about the virus. He asked if I ever> planned on telling him; I told him definitely--he has> the right to know if the relationship gets serious.> And I wanted to make sure I had all my information,> doctor lined

up, and treatment plan in the works. He> said he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.> > And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It is> the chance I have to take. But I don't want him to> hang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. I> know there are some people who have had the virus for> years, got married, had kids, and no one ever> contacted it. I'm trying to remain positive about> that. He is a very special person to me, so I'll have> to wait and see.> > Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimate> crummy weekend. I look forward going into work> tomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off of> this...even if it is for a little bit.> > Gav> > > > > >

__________________________________ > - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 > http://mail.> > > I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a island never cries...- Simon> > > 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]

NO count Marcula, hehe, love the name,, but I wont lighten up,, I dont want ANYONE to get this stuff, I TODAY have my 27th anniversary as this day that many years ago was when I got infected with this stuff,,

Happy Halloween to everyone!

hugz

jaxMarcus <marcuscal@...> wrote:

Ok Ok Jax, Lighten Up! You got me scasred to go out after all that. Oh wait, thats cuz its Halloween LOL!!! SCARRRRYYY HUUUGGZZZZ, COUNT MARCULA> Ric,> > These risks ARE ongoing. I have to battle doctor offices and dental offices> all the time about taking HCV virus seriously. They want to think its passed> by sexual transmission, and we aren't having sex there. Or that its *only*> transfusion. And the current

blood supply is safe. <maybe>> > I agree that getting tested is important. I'd like to know that my doctor,> my dentist, and their staff persons are tested, too.> > Sal> > Re: First TX shot--Thought I was going to die> (figuratively)> > > > you know, I would be more interested in telling people> the current risks of catching HCV. Some of those you> mention are still current. In telling people to get> tested, it would be helpful to mention those past> risks. Yes,they are still here, but most businesses> and medical practices are up to date. Speculating> about how we got

this disease is the least important> part. Getting people tested is.> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > 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]

-Dear Jackie,

I'm going tomorrow for a biopsy, last one was nearly four years ago

and for some reason they didn't report the results by numbers but

stated " moderate to sever activity " and " minimal fibrosis " and at

about the same time my viral load was 5,000,000. I started TX in

April 2003 and stayed on it for a year. I figure I got this as a

result of a serious car wreck about 24 years ago.

I had been reading Dr. Cecil's material on his website and at the

end of treatment I suggested to my gastro dr. that he continue the

treatment a few months longer, as my viral load had run back up at

six months and also because I was tolerating the meds well. But he

said " No, upon what basis would I do that? " He was a total believer

in the " cookie cutter " approach. I should have found a different

doc (or just kept ordering the meds) and treated longer.

So your doctor was the famous Dr. Cecil? Maybe I need to go see

him. Lately I have been feeling pretty rough (for the first time,

really) and I am really worried that this could be the hep acting

up. Guess I should have done something a year ago after I failed my

6 month viral load (and at 15,000,000) but then you read about all

these new meds in the pipeline and hope some of them will work.

Have you ever heard of anyone having their viral load run up high

AFTER treatment?

Was your TX sucessful? Hope so.

-- In Hepatitis C , Jackie on

<redjaxjm@y...> wrote:

>

> well Willian and Rose,, Im so sorry,, I was/am geno 1a too and I

spoke with Dr. Cecil and he advised becasue I was stage 3-4 with

early cirrhosis that I should do at least 48 weeks AFTER I tested

undetectible.. so I was shooting for 60 weeks, but only made 54,,

ended up in the hospital needing 2 units of packed red cells as my

hemoglobin dropped to 7.0, RBCS and WBCS were both down to 1.0...

made me really mad cuz I got this exactly 27 years ago TODAY when I

had my first child and I hemmorrhaged and had to have 4 units of

blood after delivery...

> so happy birthday to my son and to my liver,, sigh,,

>

> br54930701 <wreeves126@e...> wrote:

> --hi, Same thing happened to me. 48 weeks with

pegasys/ribavirin.

> No virus at 3 months, 212,000 at 6 months then at the end no

virus.

> But 6 months later 15,000,000; off the scale I guess. I'm type 1-

A

> and get another biopsy Wednesday, first in over three years. Got

my

> fingers crossed.

>

> - In Hepatitis C , perky rose

<agann_01@y...>

> wrote:

> >

> > Yes it is a hard time;;;and sleeping it off is the best way to

> deal with it. I went thru the entire 48 weeks of peg-interferon

and

> ribavarin. The virus was undetectable at 12 weeks. A month after I

> finished,theapy, however, the virus relapsed (with a vengeance) -

> quite devastating. So now, I am sitting back, not even knowing

what

> step to take next . Has anyone else relapsed? Do you get back into

> therapy? IT is quite depressing.... But luck to those of you

still

> in therapy - hope you are successful

> >

> > janet <doc_jade@y...> wrote:Oh Gav,

> > Sorry you had such a bad time the first shot. Let me give you a

> little secret. On the day of shot, I literally wear myself out. Do

> all those little things that I know that will make me sleepy. Then

I

> take my shot, and sleep off the side effects. And honey it does

get

> better as the treatment goes. I am Genotype 1a and yes I have to

do

> the whole 48 weeks. I have 7 more shots come monday, then I will

be

> done. As of now I am still undetectable. So there is a positive

side

> of treatment. Reaching that undetectable!!!

> > Be sure and let us know how you are doing honey. And remember we

> are here for you.

> > Love

> > Janet

> >

> > Z King <gavriella_rachel@y...> wrote:

> > Well, I took my first Ribavirin and Pegintron 2b shot

> > Friday night. I have genotype 1a with a 220,000 viral

> > load. Hopefully this stuff will wipe it out.

> >

> > I know the first weeks of treatment are the supposed

> > to be the worst, but I didn't expect to get what I

> > did. Within 4 hours after taking the shot: headache

> > kicked in, then nausea and SEVERE stomach pain, then I

> > spent the whole night vomiting and major diarrhea.

> > Haven't barely slept since Thursday night. Saturday

> > all day, I had a headache that felt like someone shot

> > my brains out; Tylenol isn't helping (and I know too

> > much Tylenol is bad for the liver). So I'm foregoing

> > that. Today, Sunday, it is a bit better. I'm able to

> > hold down some protein shake and a bit of cheese. I'm

> > drinking as much water as my body can hold to ease the

> > symptoms. Been drinking water around the clock since

> > Friday. Even keep bottles of the stuff by my bed.

> >

> > I'm still a bit headachey and dizzy today, but I can

> > deal with it. All I can say is WHOA--Friday night was

> > the night from hell. Hope this gets easier. At least

> > my two dogs have been trying to give me comfort. They

> > seem to know when I don't feel good and will snuggle

> > with me in bed and bring me their toys.

> >

> > I had to cancel my date Saturday with a guy I've been

> > dating the past few months. When I told him why (the

> > fallout from the treatment) and about the HepC, he

> > freaked. I told him I didn't want to have this kind of

> > serious conversation over the phone. I wanted to tell

> > him in person. He's in total shock and is worried I

> > gave it to him. That I can understand when people

> > don't know much about the virus. He asked if I ever

> > planned on telling him; I told him definitely--he has

> > the right to know if the relationship gets serious.

> > And I wanted to make sure I had all my information,

> > doctor lined up, and treatment plan in the works. He

> > said he would call me today, so I'm waiting for that.

> >

> > And I am prepared if he never calls again, too. It is

> > the chance I have to take. But I don't want him to

> > hang around out of pity or feels he's obligated. I

> > know there are some people who have had the virus for

> > years, got married, had kids, and no one ever

> > contacted it. I'm trying to remain positive about

> > that. He is a very special person to me, so I'll have

> > to wait and see.

> >

> > Sorry to be such a downer--it's been the ultimate

> > crummy weekend. I look forward going into work

> > tomorrow, so I can keep busy and take my mind off of

> > this...even if it is for a little bit.

> >

> > Gav

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > __________________________________

> > - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005

> > http://mail.

> >

> >

> > I am a rock, I am island...and a rock feels no pain, and a

island

> never cries...- Simon

> >

> >

> > 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]

Jackie,

My next door neighbor (and close friend) is a very good dentist. I

of course I told him about my Hep C and he is very knowledgeable

about the problem and says that his office takes every precaution

and that he is not a bit worried. I have noticed that he and his

staff and very big on the masks and gloves. He says that he is more

worried about HIV and apparently he gets some numbers from the state

health department about HCV and HIV here in this county (I am in

Florida) and says that you would be suprised at how high the

percentage of infected people here is. He says don't worry a bit,

that he and his staff are safe. I just got my notice for my six

months teeth cleaning. Of course if a dentist was careless he sure

would be at risk. I bet he gets a periodic blood test for this

stuff. I will ask him.

It wouldn't surprise me that a much bigger danger are barber shops.

> Ric,

>

> These risks ARE ongoing. I have to battle doctor offices and

dental offices

> all the time about taking HCV virus seriously. They want to think

its passed

> by sexual transmission, and we aren't having sex there. Or that

its *only*

> transfusion. And the current blood supply is safe. <maybe>

>

> I agree that getting tested is important. I'd like to know that my

doctor,

> my dentist, and their staff persons are tested, too.

>

> Sal

>

> Re: First TX shot--Thought I was

going to die

> (figuratively)

>

>

>

> you know, I would be more interested in telling people

> the current risks of catching HCV. Some of those you

> mention are still current. In telling people to get

> tested, it would be helpful to mention those past

> risks. Yes,they are still here, but most businesses

> and medical practices are up to date. Speculating

> about how we got this disease is the least important

> part. Getting people tested is.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> 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

>