Question

Are aches in my fingers and knees a side effect?

22 December 2008. Related: All topics, Changing treatment, Side effects.

Thanks for answering my previous question – really appreciated.

I am 30 years old and I was diagnosed in April this year and started meds in June, as my CD4 was 250 and high VL. I started on Atripla but switched 2 months ago to Atazanivir (boosted) & Truvada – this was because of side effects from efavirenz. Have been ok with the new combination and my last results were CD4 420, CD4% 30 and undetecable.

However, I have started to get aches in my knees and fingers. Could this be HIV or medication related?

My hands feel very cold all the time (even when at home with the heating on) and last week my knees were very hot – however, this only happened for a few days.

I have had a cold so guess this might be related to that – however, I have never had sore joints with a cold before.

I have a doctors appointment in mid January – but wondering if I should see them sooner.

Thanks

Answer

Answer: Simon Collins

These are not normal side effects reported with the drugs you are taking.

If they continue then you are right to talk to your doctor about this. How soon you see your doctor depends on how painful or difficult they are. If they are a big problem, see your doc earlier.

Until then, keep a diary of how often they occur and how painful they are – they may just be realted to your cold.
This may involve referral to a specialist.