Just recently diagnosed with Hep C. I am a health care worker who fell into that incredibly small percentage of people contaminated by accidental needle sticks in the course of work. I am a bit resentful at how I came down with this disease but am starting to look for the silver lining in this cloud. Maybe in finding ways to come to terms with this new diagnoses I can also help others along the way.

I am still pretty confused about all the terminology and blood test interpretations, different opinions on when to start treatment, the type of treatment, etc. but I am blessed with a wonderful Infectious Disease physician who I trust. Unfortunately, she has had a death in her immediate family and won't be available for a few weeks. Now, of all times, when I just found out that my viral load has increased and I may require treatment, i can't contact her. Oh well. Patience will be something else I will learn from this disease.

Until now my lab counts have been relatively o.k. and my doctor has said treatment can wait. However the last lab test shows increase in viral load and the time for treatment may have arrived. I am very worried about the side effects and horror stories I have heard, such as hair falling out, chronic exhaustion, depression, suicidal thoughts, etc. that can result with treatment. Is there anyone out there that has had a positive experience with treatment. Anyone that can relieve a little bit of my anxiety at starting what I consider "a sentence". I am a very active, 45+ year old female who loves sports and traveling. I don't want this disease and the resulting treatment to interfere with my life.

Would love to hear from those with positive experiences.

Thanks in advance to those of you who take time to reply to me.

snowbuny@hotmail.com

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