Benefits of Starting Early

Start Early While You Are in Your Best Shape. If you have hepatitis C, you need to discuss treatment options with your doctor. Therapy can be physically, mentally, and even emotionally challenging. Starting treatment while still in the best physical condition, with a strong mindset, and with dependable support and information resources will help you cope with the challenges involved.

Lower Your Risk of Transmission. The sooner you start treatment, the sooner the chances for reducing the amount of virus in your blood, which will help to lower the risk of transmission to others. If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis C, tell other friends and family members who may be infected so they too can be tested.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle. Even if you are not a candidate for drug therapy, adopting a healthier lifestyle may help to strengthen your immune system and improve your overall health and well-being. Also ask your doctor about receiving vaccines for hepatitis A and B to help protect you from these other damaging viruses.

Remember, discuss treatment options with your doctor as soon as possible even if you have no symptoms. Many times symptoms do not appear until considerable liver damage has occurred. You may want to watch our video "Next Steps if You're Hepatitis C Positive".

You can turn to The Be In Charge® Program for a vast amount of additional information and support as you manage your hepatitis C treatment. Sign up now for this tremendous support tool.