Hep C Discussion Forum

Copy of email conversation between me and my doctor's office:

Hi Cindy,

Just wanted to send you a note on my progress so far.

The rash is definitely getting better. I do not have a lot of large, raised bumps anymore. They are mostly flat and are changing color from fiery red to a brownish color.
I have not had a fever since 12/24.
I am still taking the antihistamine 3-4 times per day (1 tab). I still have some itching so I will continue to take them until I do not itch ANYWHERE for at least a day or two. I have found that using Vaseline Intensive Rescue Repairing Moisture body lotion (fragrance free) also helps with the itch. In fact, I like it better than the compound from Walgreens.
My head is so much better as far as the brain fog is concerned.
I still tire easily but also rest quite a bit. I am thinking that is due to my blood work. Any idea on how long it takes for everything to get back in the normal range? I know that everyone is different, but maybe an "average" time frame?

I told the doctor that I did not receive any counseling on the rash before I began therapy. (I found out about the rash on some Hep C forums.) Other possible side effects should also be discussed in detail with, perhaps, some ideas on what to eat for the 20 grams of fat. (I was told potato chips, bagels, french fries). There are many food items that have a healthy fat contact. The literature that comes with the welcome kit also has some ideas, but when you are in the middle of the therapy, it's hard to want to make anything. (One-quarter cup of pecans did the trick for me, it was easy and I didn't have to think about it.) Another thing that you guys might want to consider is to actual see the patients every two weeks so that you can check for any rash and talk face to face with them about how they are doing or any problems they may be having. I think that waiting 8 weeks to see someone is a little too long. You guys are very caring and concerned about the patients well-being while on triple therapy. More face-to-face time would solidify this.

Overall, I am doing much, much better. I will go in for blood work in March per the doctor's instructions (viral load, cbc, etc) and let you know when I get it done.

Thanks for all of you help along the way!

Happy New Year!

Julie

Reply from office:


Hi Julie.

Sorry you did not feel like everything was made clear. Your rash is the most severe we have seen. I dont think this is anything we expected, but your sharing inside info will always help the next person.


Like I said before, your rash is more severe than the others. Sounds like it is starting to heal. I am guessing in a month it should be a lot better.


Let me know when you get your lab work done. Do you have an order for this? You should be able to use the orders I gave you for this.


Take care. Glad you are doing better. Cindy