--- Quote from: Kaki22 on June 05, 2023, 10:18:31 pm ---unfortunately, i will have to wait for 1 year after arv to have a free cd4 count/ viral load test. I'll start saving money for these tests so I can get earlier results. I need the results because I'm afraid i might have a drug resistant HIV.
--- End quote --- where do you live? It seems like there should be at least one cd4/vl test in any country to make sure the meds are working long before a year's weight. Maybe knowing your country, someone can offer up some information/assistance.
Kaki22:
--- Quote from: leatherman on June 06, 2023, 05:49:04 am ---where do you live? It seems like there should be at least one cd4/vl test in any country to make sure the meds are working long before a year's weight. Maybe knowing your country, someone can offer up some information/assistance.
--- End quote ---
I'm from the Philippines, there are many clinics that offer cd4/vl test but are expensive. There are free tests but it takes one year after the start of taking arv. They said that as long as I adhere to the medication, the virus won't develop drug resistance. I'll have to contact my other healthcare provider for help and second opinion.
Tonny2:
ojo. Hi kaki22… usually, when you are diagnosed doctors check your viral load and cd4 levels so they can tell how much the virus has “damage” your immune system and do you have a base line so they can see how your medication is working… another for you to have a risk of CMV retinitis. You will had to be diagnosed with aids which is less than 200 cd4. wishing you the best and please keep us posted.
Kaki22:
--- Quote from: Tonny2 on June 06, 2023, 12:56:18 pm --- do you have a base line so they can see how your medication is working… another for you to have a risk of CMV retinitis. You will had to be diagnosed with aids which is less than 200 cd4. wishing you the best and please keep us posted.
--- End quote ---
my healthcare provider explained to me that the treatment hub is lacking enough resources, particularly the cartridge for the cd4/viral load test. so the earliest they can do it is 3 months after the arv medication. i also kind off felt like they think there's no need to rush because the HIV infection is in the early stages, got tested for HIV on april and its negative, then became positive on may after my second testing.
Tonny2:
ojo. Hello there!
Well, if your infection is recent, you don’t have to worry about opportunistic infections let alone CMV retinitis. I am sorry about the lack of resources in your country… good luck and please keep us posted