CD4 counts

[Lincolnguy]

Is it normal for CD4 counts to fluctuate?? I've been undetectable for 2 years and Cd4 was up to 780 and has now fallen to 550.... I'm assuming fluctuations are normal as in anyone, but anyone any thoughts?

[Sici_cam]

Yes is normal.. as long as u over 350 u will be fine.. sometimes blood tests cam be dodgy.. not very accurate, i wouldnt worry if i was you

[Lincolnguy in reply to Sici_cam]

Thank you....😉

[OldTimer1985]

Afternoon!

You're lucky. In all these years and I've now been undetectable for the majority, the highest I have ever managed is 421! It seems my VL is just naturally low.

It does fluctuate, but thats quite normal. If it continues to drop, then yes there may be a problem with one part of the combination you're on and your doc would pick that up when you next get your bloods done.

All the usual suspects are to blame - diet, mood, general health, mental health. If youre a little off colour - it has an effect. I worked that out early on! If you keep everything nicely balanced and ENJOY life, this HIV 'thing' is a breeze. There's bad times too, but 33 years on, but on balance its not been too bad.

Stay healthy guys and gals, especially mentally! If you feel something 'ain't right', ask friends...or your doc...or on here - don't sit worrying.

Ix

[Lincolnguy in reply to OldTimer1985]

Aww thank you

[pauldecle Partner ForumLink]

Hi Lincolnguy,

Short answer - YES

Longer answer; your CD4 count can fluctuate quite a lot throughout the day, it can be influenced by many things such as having a hard night just before you had your bloods done or even the time of day. If you have a cold or other minor ailment this will also make your CD4 go down. There are also other influences, I had to have my spleen taken out so now my CD4 count is way off normal so I have to go on my CD4 % rather than count.

We should all be looking at what our counts are doing over time rather than each individual result (I know that is hard) so looking at a graph over time is always a better way of seeing your results. All test results can be displayed to your doctor as a graph over time so you can (and mother says you should) ask your doctor or nurse to show you the graph view of your results.

I hope this helps.

Kind Regards,

Paul.

[Lincolnguy in reply to pauldecle]

Thanks matey, I appreciate that