HCV Treatments

Hi, I am new to this forum and I have a question about Hep C treatments. I was diagnosed with Hep C this past January. I am Genotype 2 and need to be on Peg-interferon injections and Ribavirin for 24 weeks. I am now in my 17th week of treatment. The Fatique is bad and the flu-like symptoms are almost unbearable, but, there is a light at the end of this tunnel and I will persevere!  These medications are very toxic and can destroy other organs in your body. My platelet count is very low now, so is my Hgb and Hct (blood count). I am seeing black wooly fuzzy floaters and I know this medication can cause problems with the retina. I am extrememly tired, and my stomach is always upset.  My question is this...after my last blood draw the results showed my thyroid was permanently damaged. The hepatologist wants me to see an endocrinologist. I now have hyperthyroidism.  My thyroid has always been perfect and never given me any problems. The Hepatologist said this was common with the peginterferon. Has anyone else who is taking these medications have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism? Did being on this treatment cause you to have thyroid problems?  I am so worried that before treatment is over..many other organs will be affected. Is this common for people on Hep C treatments?

My husband did have some thyroid problems, but he was put on thyroid medication while he was on the treatment. After he was done with the treatment he went off of the thyroid meds and his readings returned to normal. So his was temporary.

The treatment is toxic! My husband has severe neuropathy in his legs, that he never had until treatment. It is worth it to those who have a successful experience, unfortunately my husband was a non-responder. My thoughts are with you

Kathy

Welcome to the forum Jewelz. My husband had thyroid problems while doing the treatment. He was placed on medication. After treatment he continued to have thyroid problems for about a year after. Finally it retured to normal and he was taken off the medication. He has not had thyroid problems since.