Question
How do I prepare for my CD4 and viral load tests?
24 April 2012. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load.
In a week I need to make my quarter and second screening (including CD4 count and VL) Is there any suggestion how I need to behave the day before the screening? For example having a lot of physical exercise versus resting or having a big meal instead dieting, can make the difference in CD4 count result. Any other suggestion ?
Answer
There is no need to do anything different from normal the day before your tests. A lot of things can affect your CD4 results. These include exercise and any other infections, and even the time of day. Exercising immediately before your test could affect the results. They may also vary if you take one test in the morning and another in the evening.
CD4 counts are very likely to be different between tests.
One CD4 count/viral load reading doesn’t tell you much. Your doctor will want to look at how your results change over time to see how your body is responding to the virus.
For more information about CD4 and viral load tests you can look at other questions which have been answered online.
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