Early Days

So, there I was about 6 years ago. Wasn't in brilliant health anyway due to work stress, the PLC group I worked for was on a dodgy financial wicket. I had a bit of a cardiac incident - not a full on heart attack, but I had to have an implanted recording device to get a proper diagnosis.


I had all kinds of tests at all kinds of hospitals, then, one morning a letter from an HO arrived which said I tested positive for Hepatitis C and an appointment at the Gastro-Intestinal unit would follow. Just that...I didn't even know I was being tested for HCV. It hit me like a wrecking ball. I knew nothing about HCV and without some gentleness and support at that time, your mind just keeps screaming "You are going to die!" 


Eventually got hold of said HO, who was mortified and asked if I could get in that day. I duly went and we agreed that we had both learned something that day. Shortly after, I got an appointment to see my HCV specialist. She is an absolute authority on the condition, very kind, patient and understanding. It is a not unpleasant bonus that she is also one of the most beautiful women I have ever been fortunate enough to set eyes on!


She explained that my liver is basically shot. It is compensating for the cirrhosis by, I think, finding other ways to perform it's functions. If it decompensates, I will have major problems. The organ will fail completely and I will, in all likelihood, develop Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Liver Cancer). For this reason I can no longer drink alcohol. Ever. I gave in for a month after I relapsed post first treatment. Bloody near killed myself. Hangovers took a week to subside and I kept blacking out. Choosing life, ta! 


The oesophagus often develops what are called 'varices' with this condition. As far as I understand, they are like varicose veins only in the tum. They have a propensity to bleed and this has to be treated straight away or it can be life-threatening. I take a steroid called Propranolol to help with this. I have regular scopings to check these, things and having started with a dozen big 'uns, am happy to report there is now only one and that is barely visible. Also take a thing called Spironolactone as the peritoneal cavity tends to fill with a liquid called ascites. 


Next time, I'll talk about my first 6 month  round of Tx. Please leave comments. Can I present this more interestingly. I am a fumble-handed, trembling blog virgin.... :-D