Patient Education About Hepatitis C from University of Colorado Hospital
Living with Hepatitis C Virus
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be in your body for a long time – often between 20 and 40 years – before you develop serious symptoms or experience liver failure.
Once you’ve been diagnosed with HCV, it's crucial to receive appropriate medical care. A doctor trained in treating HCV – like an infectious disease specialist – can help monitor the disease and when to begin treatment.
Because hepatitis C affects the liver, it is important to be in good health and keep your liver healthy. You can do this by:
- Avoiding or strictly limiting alcohol use
- Never taking alcohol with other drugs, especially acetaminophen
- Checking with your doctor before taking any medications
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting appropriate exercise
Living with hepatitis C virus can be stressful. Be sure to talk to your doctor, family and friends about your concerns. Also, avoid spreading HCV. Keep wounds covered, and don’t share anything that might have any blood on it, including:
- Razors
- Toothbrushes
- Tattoo needles
- Body piercing instruments
- Manicure tools
Hepatitis C Virus Support Groups
Hepatitis C Connection
Call (720) 917-3960. Locations include:
- Denver – first Monday of each month, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sherman Gardens Office Building, 190 E. 9th Ave., Suite 320.
- Aurora – first Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Spalding Rehabilitation Hospital, 900 Potomac Ave.
- Englewood – third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Swedish Medical Center, 501 E. Hampden Ave.
- Lakewood – second Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Shepherd of the Hills Church, 11500 W. 20th Ave.
- Veterans – first Wednesday of each month, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., VA Medical Center, address.
The Archdiocese of Denver HIV/AIDS Ministry
Offers a support group for people who are HIV positive, or have AIDS or Hepatitis C. Meets the first Monday of each month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. St. Dominic Parish Center, 2901 Grove Street Denver. (303) 715-3220.
Additional Hepatitis C Virus Resources
American Liver Foundation
A nonprofit organization that promotes liver health and disease prevention. Provides research, education and advocacy for those affected by liver-related diseases, including hepatitis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Comprehensive information about hepatitis.
Hepatitis Foundation International
Helps people with hepatitis manage and fulfill their lives.
Hepatitis C Caring Ambassadors Program
A non-profit organization devoted to meeting the needs of the hepatitis C community.