How To Manage Hepatitis C Side Effects

Though hepatitis C – an infection of the liver – can be treated and in rare cases cured, the side effects can be daunting. According to the CDC, about 3.5 million people in the U.S. have contracted the disease. And while the illness which appears in several forms – mainly type 1 -- causes few symptoms, those plagued by them experience:

Jaundice (a condition that causes yellowing of the skin, eyes, as well as dark urine)
Stomach pain
Loss of appetite
Flu-like symptoms
Hair loss
Fatigue
Depression
Chills

So who is at risk HVC infection?

The CDC reports that the following persons are at an increased risk for HCV infection:

Received blood from a donor who had the disease
Have ever injected drugs
Had a blood transfusion or an organ transplant before July 1992
Received a blood product used to treat clotting problems before 1987
Were born between 1945 and 1965
Have been on long-term kidney dialysis
Persons with HIV infection
Children born to HCV-positive mothers

How does one manage their symptoms?

Common medications taken by hepatitis patients include Harvoni, Incivek, Interferon, Ribavirin and Solvadi with Interferon and Ribavirin. Hepatitis C patients may also manage their symptoms by doing the following...

For flu-like symptoms:

Take an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen (pain killer) or ibuprofen before each injection and as needed while the symptoms last — with a doctor’s approval of course.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Get sufficient rest.
Avoid strong sunlight and bright indoor lights to prevent headache.
For body aches, apply moist heat.

For depression:

Talk to your doctor about whether taking an antidepressant throughout treatment is right for you.
Avoid caffeine if you're feeling anxious or irritable.
Exercise regularly.

For fatigue:

Consult with your doctor about scheduling interferon injections for days when you can take it easy.
Cut back on work hours, if possible.
Nap during the day.
To increase your alertness and promote better sleep, take a walk.
Drink a caffeinated beverage in the morning.
If depression is a factor, consider therapy or medication.

For more information on hepatitis C symptoms, treatments, and stats, click here.