Doctor visit

[fuzzygruf]

Crap.

Just got back from my doctor. My viral load, which had quadrupled to over 20,000 in January, was back down to 1,437. Good!

My CD4 count was 332, down from 367. Okay. It fluctuates. Whatever.

My CD4% was 16 last time. It is now 11. ELEVEN. Worst ever for me. A HIV-negative person averages around 40. Below 20 is ..."thought to represent a risk of opportunistic infections..."

After a nearly 2.5-year vacation from HIV meds, I'm going back on them. I am not happy. At least this time, I only need to take them once per day. When I first started on meds 16 years ago, I was taking AZT six times a day (every four hours, around the clock). It's a wonder that I haven't already died from all those toxins.

I'll start taking the new meds on Monday. The doctor suggested starting on the weekend just in case they make me sick. "You might have to leave work if you get sick." Let's see, ruin my weekend, or ruin a day of work. Hmmmm. I told the doctor to get his priorities straight. He laughed.

Comments

[tmaher.livejournal.com]

*hugs*

I hope it doesn't cut into dancing.

[excessor.livejournal.com]

I'm glad the viral load is back down. The CD4% is telling you something. I know it sucks to be on the meds, but better now than watching the CD4% drop further. I know, I know, that doesn't make it any better. By any chance did you tell the doctor that you've changed your eating and drinking habits? That can have an effect on your blood work results.

Have a fun weekend. Hopefully, the meds won't ruin your Monday, although by all means, call in sick anyway.

Big hugs.

Hmmm

[dacubsf.livejournal.com]

Hmmm... my Dr. has never given me a CD4% when he gives me my stats. I always get viral load and CD4 stats. but never a percentage.

Do you know what he's putting you on yet?

[le-lapin.livejournal.com]