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CD4 Counts Not Affected by Alcohol Consumption
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2 Comments
The consumption of alcohol in moderation may not affect CD4 counts,but the the abuse of alcohol most certainly will. This should be included in this story. Alcoholism is a serious disease. Alcohol affects every organ in the body. The risk is not limited to the liver alone. Abuse causes the immune system to be constantly taxed. Because of the emotional and psychological strain of dealing with HIV/AIDS a disproportionate number turn to alcohol and drugs to sooth the pain. Please add a caveat.
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Chuck Etheridge
23 years ago my partner dies with a viral load of over 90,000 and an undetectable CD4 count. My infection progressed slowly, though several years ago I was taking the classic handful of drung each day. Then, as soon as the VA here (Atlanta) got it I was among the first to be prescribed it. I quit taking all other meds, other than a few anti-depressants, and ahve been taking 1 Atripla per day since. My VL is now less than 20 and my CD4 count is in the 400s. Is that progress or what?
September 27, 2012 • Dunwoody