hep c and multiple sclorsis connection?

[rook2430]

I have been having symptoms of ms for at least 3/4 years but was dx as 'fibro'. I also did 48 wks tx for hep c and have been 'clear' for 5 years. My question is: What, (if any) does research show regarding the link between hep c and ms?

[rook2430]

It is so difficult to 'put my finger on it' and when I say them out loud I'd send MYSELF to the mental ward! hahaha. Anyway here we go: as far as I've been able to determine, I began having trouble with my cognitive abilities about 2 yrs ago. I didnt think much about it but my boss did. (couldnt get words out, memory impaired and basically looking like an idiot) Then last July I began getting these extreme pains, like someone was just stabbing me over and over with a kinife. First in my left foot and now these pains have progressed to the right leg and the triceps of both arms. Sometimes the pain is like a cramp that never goies away other times I can be walking, sitting standing, whatever, and its like someone put a hot knife into me. The 'electric shocks' as I call them. My eyes (which they sent me to an opt 2 yrs ago and he said i was fine ) have become very bad. I want to mention I have fibro but this is NOT fibro pain. My husband feels and sees my muscles 'twich'.
Well I know this is probably 'over load' but its a start I guess. Nerve conduction and eegs showed 'slowed response' last Feb.

[Quixotic1]

As far as I know the Interferon Alpha that is/was used in treating Hep C has NOT been shown to cause MS.  However, there is some good data showing a linkage between the treatment for Hep C and the later development of one of the more pure autoimmune diseases - specifically Rheumatoid Arthritis.

So I have not seen any connection.  However, there is nothing that would prevent a person with the Hep C infection from developing MS merely out of bad luck.

What kind of symptoms have you been having?

Quix, MD