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Main Forums => I Just Tested Poz => Topic started by: poz-sense-9-13-12 on October 23, 2012, 12:31:24 pm

Title: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: poz-sense-9-13-12 on October 23, 2012, 12:31:24 pm

I found out my status on 9-13-12, yesterday I met with my Doctor for the viral load and Tcell numbers. He told me the numbers and gave me the scrips for Atripla but never explained anything before walking out, So Heller here I am asking you kind folks.

Viral load: 88.390  Tcell: 236

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: wolfter on October 23, 2012, 12:43:09 pm

Welcome aboard.  Can you be a little more specific with questions/concerns? 

Wolfie

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: poz-sense-9-13-12 on October 23, 2012, 12:47:39 pm

I don't understand if the numbers are in a good range or are they too low, high. The Doctor didn't go into any details about them even when I asked if it was okay or not.

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: wolfter on October 23, 2012, 12:56:01 pm

Your numbers are not terrible by any means and you should become undectable in short time. 

More importantly, IMHO, is the apparent lack of concern by your doctor.  I somehow survived a long time having a doctor, who in hindsight, was an uncaring idiot.  I always advocate now for searching for a doctor that you feel comfortable with and isn't constantly checking his/her watch.

There is no way you should have left his office after your first visit without an explanation of your situation.  My appointments last anywhere from a mere few minutes to over an hour depending on my needs.  He never rushes or dismisses my concerns and gives a detailed explanation.

take care and best wishes
Wolfie

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: poz-sense-9-13-12 on October 23, 2012, 01:02:51 pm

That's the main reason I'm moving back home to NY, South Texas seems to have a I don't give a damn outlook on this subject lol. Thank for your replay, I like the sounds of "undectable"  :D

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: Ann on October 24, 2012, 09:01:34 am

Hi Poz, welcome to the forums.

I totally agree with Wolfie - you need to find a doctor who gives a damn. Don't wait until you move, even Texas has some good, caring hiv doctors. You might want to contact a local ASO (aids service organisation); you can find one by using POZ.com's Health Services Directory (http://directory.poz.com/). They may be able to point you in the right direction. Also, we have quite a few members here who live in Texas so if you can give us an idea of your general location, someone may be able to give you a few suggestions.

While your doctor was right to start you on meds, he was totally in the wrong when he didn't bother to give you any information. Luckily you found this place and you can start learning by checking out the Lessons (http://www.aidsmeds.com/articles/Introduction_4702.shtml) and you can also find out what to expect from your meds by reading about them in the Treatments for HIV & AIDS (http://www.aidsmeds.com/list.shtml). Feel free to come back to ask any specific questions that may arise while you read.

You're going to be ok, just make sure you find a doctor who gives a shit and will take the time to explain things to you. Don't be afraid to tell your current doctor exactly what you (and we) think of his "practice"... although you may want to wait until you've found someone else. Hell, you may as well tell him now. It just may be the kick up the ass he needs. Give me his email address, I'll kick his ass for you. ;D

Ann

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: dale gribble on October 26, 2012, 12:06:51 pm

poz-sense you ought to check ought the ryan white foundation , they will be able to help you with a suitable dr
that's what i had to do he's a specialist only for hiv and other infection  diseases

Title: Re: I need help understanding the numbers..
Post by: anmlvrnyc on December 01, 2012, 12:47:45 am

poz-sense,
check out GMHC, Callen Lorde or NY Presbyterian.