for Veterans and the Public
Adopt a healthy lifestyle - Hepatitis C for Patients
The most important thing you can do for your hepatitis C is to talk to your provider about treatment. In addition to treatment, here are some important tips to keep your liver healthy:
- Do not drink alcohol or take drugs. Alcohol and illicit drugs are hard on your liver even when you don't have HCV. If you need help to stop drinking alcohol or taking drugs, talk with your VA provider.
- Avoid taking medicines, supplements, and natural or herbal remedies that might cause even more damage to your liver. Although Tylenol is safe in low doses, many pain relievers can cause liver problems in some very sensitive people. Check with your provider before you take any natural or herbal remedy, supplement, prescription, or over-the-counter medicine.
- Be sure to get plenty of rest, follow a healthy diet, and get moderate exercise. Ask your VA provider for suggestions about what types of food would be good for you and what forms of exercise would be appropriate.