Common Pitfalls to Avoid After a Hepatitis C Diagnosis

Sometimes, fears about hepatitis C can lead to mistakes. Many people are afraid of starting treatment or they keep putting it off. If someone at the medical office seemed judgy, they cringe at the idea of going back. Maybe they don’t know how to pay for treatment. I have found there are 5 common mistakes people make in their hep C journeys. We are here to offer support and help you avoid them.

Five ways people hinder their own hep C treatment

Downplaying symptoms

Downplaying symptoms is a huge mistake that can lead people to avoid treatment. Even issues that might seem less criticak, like being tired all the time or having brain fog, are clear signals that the virus is wearing a person down. A sick liver could lead to yellowing of the skin, or jaundice. Swelling in the fingers and toes can mean that ascites is developing. Nausea or other stomach problems should never be ignored. These symptoms can begin to go away once treatment is started. I bruised easily and had bad leg cramps. I thought those symptoms were no big deal, but they were actually signs my liver was super sick.

Ignoring Brain Fog

If a person keeps losing their keys, wallet, or other important items, it’s a huge red flag. Everyone jokes about walking into a room and not remembering the reason, but the truth is not funny. It is not just a lapse of memory. It is a signal that the liver is overloaded, and the brain can’t keep up. I kept sticky note reminders all over my house before treatment. I had a whole new brain when the hep C virus was gone.

Eating Junk Food

A blend of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats keeps us energized every day. Skipping meals can tip the body out of balance. Healthy protein snack bars can give people a boost while getting ready for treatment. Whole grain breads, veggies, and meat are also helpful. Eating salad every day can provide people undergoing treatment for hepatitis C with lots of energy and vitamins that are needed to heal the liver.

Losing Sleep

Liver disease can cause a reverse sleep pattern in which a person stays awake late into the night, and then is sleepy all day. The grogginess can make it hard to focus on the job. Good bedtime rituals can make it easier to doze off, and stay asleep. Increased energy levels the next morning is the reward.

Not Getting Treatment

With a single dose pill, it is so easy to get cured of hep C. Treatment can help the liver heal, and a person’s entire body can feel brand new again. It’s easy to get cured and put those problems in the past.

Don’t let fear prevent you from getting cured

I made all of those mistakes at one time, and regretted it later. Honestly reviewing symptoms with a medical provider is the first step. Next comes paying attention to brain fog and eating healthier foods. Getting proper rest is always a boost to the day. Now, it’s easier than ever to take the first step to starting treatment to get cured of hepatitis C.