Come back in 2 months, worried about my count.

[JD40]

Just had my cd4 and VL results back.

CD4 = 311
VL = 261,000

The doc has said no need to start meds but come back in 2 months for another test to see how it is then. 

I've read people starting meds with a higher cd4 count to mine.  My VL seems high?  My glands in my throat have been up for 8 weeks, they sometimes hurt a little.

Should I trust this doc's decision?  I'm concerned and worried about a 2 month wait.

I'm from UK so meds are on the NHS.  Another question for anyone reading this in the UK, how do you receive your meds, do they get delivered to your house and if so how frequently and what length of supply do you get?

Many thanks in advanced.

[zach]

First, I'm an advocate for immediate treatment, always will be. Many studies now show that early treatment leads to a long term higher quality of life. And, treatment as prevention is an effective way of stopping the spread of the virus.

A normal CD4 count is 500 and above. Your immune system has already sustained substantial damage. At this point, what is the doctor waiting for? A diagnosis of AIDS? You're 111 points away from that, you are closer to AIDS than you are to a normal count. Wouldn't you rather avoid that?

Your viral load. Do some math here, think of breeding rabbits. those 261k viral cells are multiplying... all the time.

Do you have access to meds? Do you have that option? Once you begin treatment, are you willing to remain adherent? I realize different countries have different guidelines, and this may be influencing your situation.

As of right now, you are on a one way ride to an AIDS diagnosis. The only thing that will stop that is medicine.

[JD40]

Many thanks Zach... I just broke out into a sweat reading that but i really appreciate you taking the time to inform me.  My thoughts on these counts were worrying.  I will receive treatment from the NHS of which I have been paying National Insurance since the day I started work 25 years ago.  I can't seem to understand why this doc is waiting, I know the NHS here in UK is having huge financial probs at the moment, surely he's not trying to save money and waiting for the last minute to treat me.

He said that the count can vary and that's why I would need to do another test... but in 2 months time, seriously!!!

I think I'll phone them a demand a further blood test asap.

Thanks for your support Zach.

[zach]

whoa slow down now

another blood test asap is not going to shed any additional light on your situation

your doctor is correct, a single test is only a snapshot and doesn't give a full picture... but you are where you are at right now, and it's not exactly a great place to be. it is correct that the trend of tests over time tracks much better a persons progress/decline

i simply disagree that waiting to begin treatment (for any reason) is a good idea

don't freak out, don't sweat, and don't fall apart. stay calm... i remember who you are now

you're newly diagnosed and freaking out, it's normal, everything is gonna be alright

look up at the top of the screen... all those buttons up there, start exploring. "about hiv/aids" and "treatment" read up. when you're done reading there, slow down on the reading. information overload will start to freak you out too.

[zach]

and we do have members on your side of the pond.

meds can be delivered, some find that convenient, some prefer a relationship with a pharmacist. i don't know what your options will be.

usually meds are given in 30 day increments, assuming (don't assume, there are many med options) a single dose regimen then each bottle will have a month supply. some places you'll get three bottles at a time. again, your situation may vary

again, start reading those lessons.

and glad you came back after that first post the other week

[JD40]

ok scrap the blood test I'll request that I'd like to start treatment asap, what's the point in stalling the inevitable? I'll be fine with the meds (i hope) and I'm fine with the whole thing just eager to get going with it all.  I'll have a further click around here and thanks Zach yep I'll be here from time to time now

[JD40]

Well all turned out ok Zach..  I saw the doc and I've started the meds today!  Have 2 months supply of truvada, prezista & norvir.

Please raise a glass for me I'm now in the meds club 

[zach]

hey awesome, i was on that combo all last year, tolerated very well

you stick with that, everyday, you'll do fine

cheers! i'll have a pint for you at the pub, on the way out now

[TheNormalLife]

Rising my glass to you, too! Zach, don't drink and drive or repair airplanes.

Cheers!

Ray.