At 29, how can I improve immunity while on ART for HIV?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 29-year-old man and was diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection about two years ago. I have been taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) regularly, but I sometimes experience fatigue, occasional fever, and recurrent oral thrush. I have noticed some unexplained weight loss and mild diarrhea over the past few months. My recent blood tests showed a CD4 count of 320 (cells per microliter) and an HIV viral load of 12,000 copies per microliter.

Liver and kidney function tests are within normal limits, and my complete blood count shows mild anemia (hemoglobin 11.8 grams per deciliter). I am concerned about whether my current treatment is adequately controlling the infection and whether I am at risk of opportunistic infections. I am also worried about potential long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney issues, or liver problems due to HIV or medications. Finally, I would like to know the warning signs of infections or complications that should prompt urgent medical attention. Please tell me.

How can I manage my diet while on ART?
What can I do to improve my immunity?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I could understand that you are concerned about whether your current antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen is adequately controlling the infection and supporting your long-term health. Especially given your recent symptoms of fatigue, intermittent fever, recurrent oral thrush, mild diarrhea, and some unexplained weight loss over the past several months.

Although you have been taking ART regularly, your recent laboratory results show a CD4 count of CD4 count of 320 (cells per microliter) and a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load of 12,000 copies per microliter (attachments are removed to protect privacy). This suggests that your immune system is moderately suppressed and that the virus may not yet be fully controlled. Also, your report shows the following things;

Your anemia is responsible for fatigue. Also, it indicates nutritional issues, chronic inflammation, medication effects, or the systemic impact of HIV itself.
Recurrent oral thrush and occasional fever indicate that your immune system is still vulnerable to opportunistic infections.

You should work closely with your clinician to help you review adherence, check for drug interactions or resistance, and adjust your antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen if needed to achieve better viral suppression and immune recovery with fewer side effects.

You can support your immune system by prioritizing

Regular sleep.
Balanced nutrition rich in protein and vitamins.
Moderate physical activity.

You should avoid smoking, excess alcohol, drug use, and chronic stress. Also, regarding diet, you should avoid

Processed food.
Junk and oily food.

Regular monitoring of your viral load and CD4 count, along with timely vaccinations that are safe for people living with HIV, helps prevent complications and detect problems early if symptoms change.

Ongoing follow-up allows your healthcare provider to screen for long-term issues such as heart, kidney, liver, bone, or metabolic conditions and guide you toward heart-healthy lifestyle choices.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.