Unfortunately, it's a normal occurance of HCV infection. As the virus damages the liver, toxins can build up in the body and then damage other viable organs that directly or indirectly help in the filtering proccess. These toxins ALONG with the virons DO pass the blood brain barrier, causing cell damage, ie, brain fog, short term memory issues as well as other cns involvement.
Unfortunately for me, after almost 30 years of infection and the doctors FINALLY figuring out what I had and being treated for it, the brain fog doesn't go away, neither does the short term memory issues. Some blame the medications, however, like you, I experienced the same problems prior to diagnosis, prior to treatment.
One things improved after verses before treatment. I used to sleep 18 hours or more a day, 7 days a week to now not even being able to take a nap during the day!
If your losing weight, you really should get to a doctor if you can, asap. This is not a good sign-but not a death wish. Get on treatment if you can (you can qualify for free meds via study).
Even if your genotype doesn't respond to treatment, your liver gets a nice break from the every changing hcv virus-the quasispecies from the initial infection.
If you drink, STOP. No red meats, no other foods containing iron-including a multi-vitamin with iron in it. Cut down on as much salt as possible. Caffiene: although good for you, if your having panic attacks, it's best to stop all caffiene intake as this is causing an overload due to a damaged liver.
I had panic attacks at only stage 2.2. There are typically 4 stages of liver damage with sub-ranges. Some doctors now use a scale between 1 and 5.
Last but not least, the sooner you get checked out, the better. Certain people who have extensive damage (close to end stage liver disease) do not qualify for treatment. A person can also live until about 94% of the liver is scarred. Most of those who have HCV also have other gastro issues like Type 2 diabetes or NASH.
Again, seek the advice of a doctor....SOON.
HUGS!
2006-12-30 19:16:55
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answer #1
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answered by giggling.willow 4
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It is a common misconception that Hep C lies dormant, because people weren't aware that they had it, or because they didn't have symptoms. Hep c is called the silent killer because it quietly attacks the cells in your liver causing fibrosis or scarring. The scarring is what causes the liver to function inefficiently, thus causing the symptoms you are now having. You need to see a gastroenterologist or infectious disease doctor and get a biopsy to see what the bottom line is on the damage to your liver. When the liver becomes so scarred that blood cannot pass through to be filtered, then it may start decompensating (which basically means it doesn't function well and you will need a liver transplant). Don't ignore it, it won't get better on it's own. I've done the treatment and have been undetectable for 6 years. I also know several people who have been transplanted and they are all doing great and living normal lives; they just have to take a few pills each day, other than that they have energy and are active and well. Best wishes to you.
2006-12-30 08:59:00
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answer #2
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answered by cindy1323 6
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I too have hep c Geno type 3a i don't know where you live but I would get to a doctor asap and get it checked out. the symptom you have are very common as your liver starts shutting down, if you are married or have a Friend have them check up on you a couple of times a day because one of the drugs the will give is called interferon and riboflavin. this has a very good success rate if you are in one of these age brackets 0 to 40 cure rate about 90% 40 to 60 cure rate 10% 60 to 80 85% . first they will do a liver biopsy to find out how far along you are, me i had to have a transplant last march and i am on anti rejection drugs for the rest of my life and these run you about 600.00 a month.
Glenn
2006-12-29 02:49:28
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answer #3
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answered by Glenn D 2
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It's already active if you're having all these symtoms.
And if you have it, have you been on treatment for it?
If you are forgetting things all the time, it is a positive indication that your brain is being effected because of 'poor liver function'
and this 'IS' serious!
Your poor memory is a sign that your liver is under tremendous
stress, and toxins are building up in your blood, which goes to your brain, hence 'forgetfulness'.
You 'MUST' see your doctor NOWWWW!!!!
I am 'not' trying to alarm you, but i am trying to warn you that this symtom is a serious one and needs to be addressed!!
Lack of energy, tiredness are 'all' symtoms of an active virus.
Your weight loss is due to the liver's inability to absorb nutrients
from your food, and you lose weight no matter how much you eat
Please, for your sake, see your doc..
2006-12-29 18:52:55
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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Dont listen to anyone who is ignorant enough to say you will die. If you get treatment, you could clear it and live a normal life. Even if you dont clear it, you will give your liver a rest. Get to the drs fast to have liver function test. And dont touch alcohol
2006-12-29 03:57:38
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answer #5
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answered by Abigail 3
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this is normal,and liver failure usually occurs in the end
2006-12-29 02:21:37
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answer #6
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answered by dumplingmuffin 7
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