Question
When should I start ARVs? What are the symptoms of HIV?
6 May 2011. Related: Access to treatment, All topics, CD4 and viral load, Starting treatment.
My CD4 count is normal.
Answer
Thank you for your question.
Most people start treatment when their CD4 count is around 350. However, this can vary by country and there are circumstances where it is recommended to start earlier. For more information please follow this link.
If you start treatment at around 350 you should not get symptoms of HIV. If you get symptoms of HIV at higher CD4 counts then that is an indicator that you should start treatment early. These can vary between people but can include pneumonia, TB, severe fevers etc.
Hi Babalwa, even without knowing your meds and other history, it is important to contact your clinic. The clinic can then decide how serious these symptoms are and the best advice on what to do. Sometimes this might not be the meds. It is okay to use regular headache pills if this will help. If the symptoms are more than just mild, then clinic needs to know.
Hi..i just started my arv treatment..2weeks ago..my cd4 count was 418..so ..my eye is red..and..i get..headeach everyday..is it a side effect ? plz help me