One of the vital frequent dangers for folks navigating dependancy is contracting Hepatitis C (Hep C). Our collection, Turning Factors, is devoted to giving former addicts and their companions a platform to share their restoration journeys. As a part of the collection, we additionally wished to share invaluable insights and sources about what it means to get your life again on observe through the restoration course of; one level being, getting examined for Hep C.
Hepatitis C is a viral an infection that primarily impacts the liver by inflicting irritation and probably resulting in extreme liver injury over time. The virus is principally transmitted via blood-to-blood contact, which is why addicts sharing needles are of elevated danger.
What’s difficult is that Hep C typically presents no signs in its early levels, so many addicts and former addicts don’t even know they’re contaminated. Oftentimes folks actively injecting medication can carry and unfold the virus with out realizing it.
When signs do seem, they will embrace fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the pores and skin and eyes), darkish urine, belly ache, and flu-like signs. Right here’s a couple of tales from recovering addicts about their experiences testing constructive for Hep C:
‘So I acquired the information I’ve Hep C in the present day… I’ve been sober for about 4 years so that is all wild to me. I gave start to my son 2 years in the past. I’m in a state of shock however nonetheless, clearly, it is smart. How a lot injury has been performed to my liver in 4 years? That’s all I can take into consideration. I’m additionally going to have my son examined. I really feel a lot guilt. I’ve had continual exhaustion for years now and it’s beginning to make sense as properly.’
‘I had Hep C for a few years… I suffered so lengthy with Hep C till I acquired therapy. The continual exhaustion was the worst for me, and the melancholy and never having the ability to eat and at all times feeling sick. Ugh it was horrible.’
Getting examined for Hep C is essential for early detection and efficient administration of the illness and stopping the long-term well being penalties related to the virus. Early testing permits for intervention, which reduces the chance of extreme liver injury, cirrhosis, and liver most cancers. So, should you occur to be in a excessive danger group for Hep C, corresponding to these with a historical past of intravenous drug use, contemplate getting examined. The extra you already know, the extra time you give your self to take motion and the extra peace you’ll be able to carry to your thoughts.
Quote supply: (Reddit)