Question
I’ve been on meds for 3 years, why is my viral load still detectable?
3 April 2017. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Changing treatment, Resistance.
I have been HIV positive for almost three years and been taking medication since that time. However my viral load is not yet undetectable of which I believe it should be right now. I get my medication from a public clinic but now I am working and have a medical aid I have decided that I want to go to the private doctor however that is another long procedure and it will cause me to not take medication for few days…so will that affect my health or will it cause medication to not work?
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch.
If you’ve been on meds for 3 years and you still aren’t undetectable, this implies that something is possibly wrong. This is because a persons viral load is expected to be undetectable within 3 months. Though it can take longer if you start meds with a low CD4 count. But not 3 years.
Therefore, its important that you talk to your doctor about this. Be this the one you have now, or the one you will get when you change cover. You will need to have a resistance test done. And it sounds like you will need to change your treatment plan.
With regards to, if its OK or not to miss meds for a few days, this will depend on what meds you’re taking. What is it that you use? Also, if they aren’t working as they should, it may not make much difference.
When are you due to go private?
Hello Robert and thanks for getting in touch
Do you mind if I ask why you don’t want to go on medication again?
If you are worried about side effects the medication we have available at the moment are much better and with less side effects, if any.
I can’t predict how much you have to live.
Everyone is different and the response of your body will be unique to you.
I will tell you however that as your CD4 lowers in number you will be more at risk of having an infection that your body might not be able to fight off easy.
That might require hospitalisation, etc.
However, it might be a while before things get to that.
I have to also tell you that today we have excellent evidence saying that you can have a very good, healthy, active life if you start medication.
You can have a partner that will not risk catching HIV from you once you become undetectable and you can have HIV-free kids if you want them.
The decision is always yours but I want you to know the possibilities before making a final decision.
I am sure that if you go back to your clinic they will be very happy to see you and that will allow you to have blood tests and discuss treatment options.
Please feel free to stay in touch here or questions@i-base.org.uk
I didn’t get my hiv medication from my health clinic 3 years ago have I go long to live I won’t be going on hiv meds again