Autoimmune Problems:
Chronic hepatitis C infection is also associated with many autoimmune diseases (where the body develops antibodies which attack parts of itself). For example, about one-tenth of people with chronic hepatitis C infection (more often in women and older people) have antibodies to the thyroid gland, one-half of whom may develop hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland). Additionally, interferon therapy may cause hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland) in about one-tenth of those treated. People with hypothyroidism may suffer from fatigue, poor memory, weakness, constipation, weight gain, muscle cramps, intolerance to cold, hoarse voice, coarse skin, and brittle hair. Also, there is a chance that other autoimmune problems such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart problems may manifest themselves during treatment. Please ask your doctor to test you for potential autoimmune problems before beginning treatment. People with hyperthyroidism may suffer from anxiety, insomnia, weakness, diarrhea, weight loss, intolerance to heat, velvet-like skin, and brittle nails. Hypothyroidism can be treated with thyroid hormone pills. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with pills that block thyroid hormone synthesis. If the thyroid gland dysfunction is from interferon treatment and is caught early, the thyroid gland will return to normal once interferon is stopped with the advice of your M.D.