Question
Stress and CD4 count
14 August 2007. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load.
I’d like to echo your entry that stress can play an important role in CD4 counts rising and falling. I switched to a position here in the US 18 months ago that placed unusually high demands on me. I accomplished a lot but was under considerable stress. I ate well and complied with my medical regimen as usual.
My CD4, however, dropped from 580 to 380 over the course of eight months although my VL remained non-detectable throughout. There were no other defining events that I could point to as the cause other than the job. I’m no longer with that employer and my CD4 went up to 560 within three months and has remained in that upper range ever since.
Even though I am currently freelancing (with insurance) I feel much better mentally and physically. My labs also reflect this with better readings.
So, one must not overlook the importance of controlling stress as mush as possible in addition to taking your medications as part of a comprehensive approach to looking after your health.
Answer
Thanks
More information about recognising and reducing stress are included on the UK Hepatitis C Trust website:
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