Dear Meki,
44 questions are usually too many to answer in one post. I did try this one last week, but the computer lost my reply and it was so much work that I could not possibly do it again.
I am assuming that you were geno 3 and are now cured and have some neuropathy. That can be caused by the HCV, or the interferon or both. Many autoimmune issues are triggered by the interferon. Usually it is all over a year after stopping as I am guessing it is with you. Neuropathy is a real issue and very painful so I would not take it lightly.
1. Never. I always check once yearly, but probably not necessary after a year or two. I like to see the patients and make sure they are OK.
2. Cured
3. Yes
4. No
5. Yes
6. Usually HCV Ab remains positive, although sometimes it goes away.
7. No immunity. You can get it again. be careful out there! DTD
2.5 yrs svr 2b, 24 wks INF/RIB, 50 yr f. A few bothersome post tx issues: some kinda joint inflammation appeared from fingers to elbows, which has receded to thumb and pointer finger joints, and continuing GI "overactivity", ie, the diarrhea never stopped. But I've never gotten a so much as a cold since, I have color in my skin, I look fabulous and feel great. I went back to soccer and I feel 20 years younger. My asthma is a bit worse.
Note: I had 2-3 wks "leftover" drugs and due to extreme neurosis took them just to really kill the %#(&*^) virus. That's when the arm inflammation started and it began to recede when I stopped.
I HATED Procrit, but it worked.
THANK YOU for answering those questions.
Unfortunately the Neuropathy is getting worse as time goes on - so I figure I'll be living with it for some time... If it hasn't gone away yet.
But with the meds they make these days - and more in the future - I can live with pain - vs. dying... So it was all worth it.
Thank you for letting me know that I'm no longer contagious - that has weighed very heavily on my mind... As I know that my family is clear... I wish to keep them that way - and I feel very personally responsible to keep the HCV contained from my standpoint.
Thank you for your time and your answers --- including the double answers! *GRIN*
Meki
Thanks Zazza... Much appreciated.
I think I scared him away.... *sniffle*
Meki
Interesting questions # 1-7, Meki!