Question

I used to be doing well on ART but now I am losing weight…

9 January 2026. Related: All topics, Opportunistic infections, Side effects, Support.

I was doing well when I first got the treatment some 5 years ago in Papua New Guinea but now I’m sick and I have lost a lot of weight, What can I do to get my weight back and not be sick?

Answer

Answer: Simon Collins

Hi there

Thanks for your email and for letting us post an answer online.

Great to hear that everything was going so well early on but I am sorry that your weight is worrying you now.

Because so many other things in life can affect your weight could you help with a little more information? This will help look for the possible cause.

• What is your normal height and weight and how much did this change and over what time – even roughly?

This is to get an idea of how serious the weight loss is,

• Do you know the names of your meds and have these changed at all?

This is to comment on whether side effects might cause this.

• Also, what was your CD4 count and viral load over this time and now?

This is to check if your meds are still working well or if there is a risk of another infection or illness.

• What has your doctor said about this?

This is to check that your doctor knows about this and is taking this seriously.

• Finally, have you made any other chages to your life? Are you eating and sleeping well, and not under too much stress? Are you being more active etc – in case this is related to your diet and energy levels?

If you send these details I can answer in more detail, including to you privately.