Question

I’m feeling ill and worried, will HIV treatment help?

7 September 2016. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Newly diagnosed, Starting treatment, Support.

I was diagnosed HIV+ earlier this year, CD4 520 and VL around 55,000.
My question is I’ve been feeling generally unwell all the time, feeling sick, indigestion every time I eat, severe muscle aches, headaches etc. I also sleep a lot. Throughout all this I’m still working and I work long hours but I’m really starting to struggle. I can’t afford to lose my job as before I was diagnosed I took on a large mortgage to buy my flat …… to be honest I’m scared if I get worse I might have to give up my job and probably lose my home. Is there anything I can do or medicine I could take to help make me feel not so ill? I start ARVs in a couple of weeks time.

Answer

Answer: Muirgen Stack

Hi,

Thanks for getting in touch and providing lots of info.

I’m sorry you are having a tough time. Have you told anyone about your diagnosis? Do you have anyone giving you support?

As we are advocates not doctors, we can’t diagnose your symptoms. They sound like they are affecting your normal life and you should speak to your doctor about them.

It’s great you are considering treatment (ARVs). Taking ARVs is the best way to treat and control your HIV. This will make you feel much better once you start and more in control of your own health.  You can even consider starting sooner and checking if that helps with the symptoms you currently have. Your CD4 count is still strong so once you start your health will be even better. Our guide on starting treatment has lots more helpful information.

Millions of people around the world are on treatment and living the full lives they want to. However, if you find that you are still struggling with other aspects of your life such as your job or housing there are other support services that can help. You don’t have to manage everything on your own.