Hepatitis
What is it?
Hepatitis C is a virus that makes your liver swell and keeps it from working properly.
How do you get it?
You get Hepatitis C from contact with an infected person’s blood.
For example,
- sharing needles or drug accessories (filters, spoons, water, ties, etc.).
- blood transfusions or an organ transplant that was before June 1990.
- Tattoo, tattoo ink or body piercing with un-sterilized, dirty tools.
- unprotected sex with someone who has Hep C
- 5 % chance of a mother with Hep C giving it to her baby during pregnancy or at birth.
You CANNOT get the Hep C virus from shaking hands, kissing, or hugging someone with Hep C.
If you think you have Hep C, you should seek advice from a health care professional.
If you have Hepatitis C, you should NOT...
- share needles or drug accessories.
- share razor blades or toothbrushes.
- drink alcohol or use drugs.
- have unprotected sex.
Living with Hepatitis C
Physical
- Moderate exercise
- Healthy eating
- Rest and relaxation
Mental
- Positive affirmation
- Journaling
- Creativity (draw, cook, etc)
Emotional
- Healthy relationships
- Positive attitude
- Help and support other survivors
Spiritual
- Acceptance
- Connection
- Honoring your path towards healing
- Hope
Ways of Healing
- Medical treatment consists of the drug Interferon alone or in combination with the drug Ribavirin. Both drugs are antiviral.
- Use of Traditional Medicines.
- Prayer and support circles.
- Balancing what you want to do with what you are able to do...
Back to Health Information.
© 2005 — Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre. All Rights Reserved.