Treatment Options
If I have chronic hepatitis C, what can I do to help keep myself and others healthy?
With proper management, many hepatitis C patients can lead full and active lives. If you are infected with hepatitis C, you should:
- Be under the care of a doctor who specializes in the liver.
- Stay on any prescribed medications and keep all your medical appointments.
- Get the hepatitis A and B vaccinations to protect you from another liver infection.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious meals, getting exercise, resting when you feel tired and avoiding alcohol and illegal drugs.
- Use only drugs and supplements that your doctor has approved.
- Consider joining a hepatitis C support group, either in your community or online. Your local American Liver Foundation chapter may be able to refer you a support group in your area.
- Avoid spreading your blood to others. Don’t share razors, toothbrushes or nail clippers.
How can hepatitis C be better managed?
If you are a hepatitis C patient on medication, taking your medicine as prescribed is extremely important. Staying compliant with your medications helps the medications work more effectively and allows you to get the best response from them.
Sources: www.hepfi.org/education and www.liverfoundation.org