Stomach swelling, daily drinking, and hepatitis C: what to do?
I've had hepatitis C for 30 years and was an IV drug user. I am currently drinking on a daily basis and am having major issues with my liver. Swelling in my upper abdomen and the only thing that takes the pain away is drinking. What should I do?
Hi Heather,
You've asked a great question. Unfortunately, drinking and hepatitis C/liver disease are a bad combination, in that alcohol of any type can make liver damage worst. I understand what you're saying about taking away the pain, but swelling (ascites) and other complications will continue to get worse with drinking. Are you seeing a liver specialist like a hepatologist, gastroenterologist or infectious disease doctor? If not this is highly recommended. They specialize in liver disease, treatment and medications that can help relieve many associated symtpoms. There is great hope for you to receive help and the treatment you need. There are patient assistance programs also available to help if it's needed. Please keep us posted on how you're doing. Let us know if you have other questions my friend, we're here for you. Connie Welch
Hello Heather, As Connie has said, drinking alcohol is like pouring gasoline on a fire. It sounds as if you may have ascites which is a symptom of severe liver damage. There are procedures that can relieve that swelling and that will make the pain go away. Do you have a liver doctor? Do you have medical insurance? If you need help finding resources in your Community, you can call Help-4-Hep at 877-435-7443, M- F, 9AM til 9PM Eastern time. The call and help are free and confidential. Please call them.
