Question
I'm newly diagnosed. What's causing me continous itching?
8 May 2012. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Newly diagnosed, Starting treatment.
I was diagnosed in March and my CD4 count was 569 and viral load 2790. On my
second blood test after two weeks my CD4 went up to 695 and viral load 6250.
I am meant to go back in 4 months for another test.
But now my face is itching and I have been given a cream by my GP to apply on it but it’s still
itching. What is wrong with me?
Help needed
Answer
I am sorry that you are experiencing what sounds like quite an uncomfortable itch.
A CD4 count of 695 and a viral load of 6250 indicates that your immune system is still strong. A slight change in your CD4 count is not uncommon. This is because, CD4 counts flactuate (vary) depending on a number of factors including the time of day they the test is done. As regards your viral load, even though there is a slight variation, statistically, there is no difference between the two numbers.
There is therefore, no immediate need for you to start treatment. The BHIVA (British HIV Association) guidelines recommend starting treatment with a CD4 count of 350. In terms of viral load, most people start treatment with a viral load of up to 50,000-100,000 copies or more.
For your future reference for when you do need to start taking treatment, you may find it helpful to read our guide to An introduction to combination therapy.
You mention that you were diagnosed in March, do you know if you were recently infected? Can I also ask which hospital you receive your HIV care from?
In response to your question, as with any symptoms, the best way to confirm what is causing the continuous itching despite applying the prescribed cream, is to go back to your doctor. S/he will be able to confirm why you are still experiencing the itching, and treat you accordingly.
Best wishes.
Hi I’m newly diagnosed with HIV, my legs are itchy is it normal, or is it something that will last for as long as im taking medication please help
Hi Sofia,
If you’re having issues with your skin, please see a doctor. It may just be a case that you need some antihistamines.
Me also I also have itching skin,but I have not gone to check yet am so afraid of my self I don’t even no what to do anymore advice please
Hi Daltanie,
Please see here for all answers about HIV risks and HIV testing: https://i-base.info/qa/11844
I had unprotected sex with different girls for a number of times, how can I know whether I am HIV positive or not before consulting a doctor?
Hi Rex,
i-Base doesn’t have resources to answer questions about HIV testing and risks. But all frequently asked questions are answered through this link.
Hi , i had an unprotected sex ,after 6 months and 10 days I ran fever with headache and night sweat and unusual itching all over my body , there was no rash or any changes of skin condition , my skin was only itchy , all the symptoms took 5 days and it hapoened in the summer , i wanted to know if these symptoms can be caused by HIV ?
Hello, I’m sorry about the sad loss of your Dad and your Sister’s Mother. And testing HIV positive is a tough time for all. But it’s good to start thinking about the road to being healthier and dealing/coping. Did the doctor tell you the itching and bacteria infections were because of HIV?
Here is a guide to this difficult time. I hope it will help. It includes information about who you can talk to, and questions about HIV treatment.
I’m glad I read this and thank you for asking the question. I don’t know of anybody who has hiv. Lost my dad to aids and my sisters mother. It’s not about fear for me it’s the road to get to being healthier and dealing/cooping…. I’m trying to learn how. The Dr gave me medicine for bacteria infection a combination of 2 different bacteria fighting drugs to take for a year… newly diagnosed this year. I mean my mind is blown and I’m just exhausted from restless nights. Itching is definitely a problem in my legs and hard to fight….
Hi there,
I am sorry to learn of your diagnosis and the constant itching you have. I have had similar problems and it is possible for HIV to manifest itself in terms of skin problems. I have had similar situation in the first year of diagnosis.
Symptoms included-
1. General itching due to exposure to sunlight
2. Severe itching due to hot water showers/ baths
3. Abrupt itching in stressful and anxious situations
4. General dry skin and scratching making itching worse.
My symptoms subsided after a few months and they Hugely improved after commencing treatment. A lot of it could be due to psychological response to a new diagnosis.
Try the following:
1. Relax ( I know it is very difficult when newly diagnosed) but anxiety could be a big factor! You are not going to die of HIV!
2. Avoid prolonged showers and baths, particularly hot ones.
3. Use Epaderm as a soap substitute. Your GP can prescribe this. Avoid soaps, harsh chemicals etc.
4. Keep your skin moisturised and hydrated. The best and most natural way of doing this is applying Coconut oil over the body regularly and especially before baths.
6. Ask your doctor to prescribe antihistamine like Citrazine for a few weeks/ months.
7. UV treatment, if every thing else fails- your dermetogist can prescribe this.
It’s hit and trial for most skin conditions as doctors won’t be a le to diagnose what is causing this with pin point accuracy- they will aim to treat your symptoms only. I now regularly coat myself in Coconut oil on weekends and let it be there for a good few hours.
You will notice that your skin conditions will become better after commencing treatment.
And yes, don’t get hung up on numbers- its a live body not a computing machine. There will be a lot of fluctuations before things start settling down; but in the end they will.
Hope this helps. Best wishes!