Question
My CD4 is 240, is this OK?
10 February 2019. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load.
Hi, I’m a 27 years old male. My first diagnosis was in November 2018 but I only got to know in February 2019 that I am positive. Cd4 is 240 and viral load 37000. Starting ART soon. My question is, how bad are these numbers? I feel in very good health, but scared seeing these numbers. I eat clean, exercise regularly and drink alcohol in low moderation. All other blood reports are good. What bothers me is the fear of first line therapy not suiting me, which would basically leave me with very few treatment options available.
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch,
Though your CD4 is 240, CD4’s do go much lower. Once you’re on ART your CD4 count will begin to rise. Your viral load will also decrease. There’s more about starting medication here: http://i-base.info/guides/starting
If you were to have issues with your first combination there would be other options available. What’s important now it to start ART. This will control your HIV.
Hi Lethabo,
Its not possible to say how long it will take for your CD4 count to rise, it will however in time rise. When you’re new to treatment what’s important is getting your viral load under control. There’s more about this here: http://i-base.info/guides/starting
How long does it take to a cd4 count to increase my cd4 count is 299 only started taking ARV’s from the 17th jan 2019 was dignosed on the 11th I take my meds on time I eat right I’m concerned