What should I do to take care of myself if I have hepatitis C?

• Make sure you have received an accurate diagnosis. Hepatitis C can be diagnosed reliably only through sophisticated blood tests used in conventional medicineMedicine as practiced by holders of M.D. (medical doctor) or D.O. (doctor of osteopathy) degrees and by their allied health professionals such as physical therapists, psychologists, and registered nurses..
  
  
• See your health care provider regularly.
  
  
• Discuss treatment options with your provider. Ask any questions you have to make sure you understand any treatment and possible side effects. Follow her recommendations for any changes to your diet and/or lifestyle.
  
  
• Tell your provider about any herbal supplementsA type of dietary supplement that contains herbs, either alone or in mixtures., other dietary supplements, or medications (whether prescription or over-the-counter) that you are using or considering. This is important for your safety. Even if your provider does not know about the actions or interactions of an herbal supplement or other CAM treatment, he can access the most current medical guidance.
  
  
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Infection with hepatitis C does not prevent a person from becoming infected with other types of hepatitis; if this happens, it can be serious, even life-threatening.
  
  
• Be an informed consumer. Seek high-quality, science-based information on any CAM modality that you are using or considering. There is free information from NCCAM, the National Library of Medicine, and other Federal sources to help you distinguish science-based information from other types, including word-of-mouth and manufacturers' claims.
  
  
• If you decide to try herbal supplements, do so with care.