HIV Support Group

HIV (also known as human immunodeficiency virus, and formerly known as HTLV-III and lymphadenopathy-associated virus) is a retrovirus that primarily infects vital components of the human immune system which can lead the syndrome known as AIDS. Many of the problems faced by people infected with HIV result from failure of the immune system to protect from opportunistic...

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Infectious Diseases
/ HIV Support Group

Advice on adjusting, new diagnosis

washburne
washburne

Hi everyone, I'm new here. If youre strong and youve figured out a way to stay mentally focused please read this, to help me. I only got diagnosed yesterday and found this forum through a hotline. I have done got of research and I've dome to understand that HIV is just a virus you live with like any other autoimmune disease (diabetes, cancer, you name it), and this can happen to anyone. Life works in mysterious ways and sometimes we get diseases and some people don't. But none of us have a perfect path here.



The one thing I have been struggling with since having this diagnoses/illness is that I'm unsure of how my life will change. Outside of having to take multiple pills a day (Which i haven't started yet), is there anything else I can expect? That would be enough to swallow (pun intended lol), but the side effects are such a pile on, and I already have to be concerned about the social stigma with this disease. 



Thank you so much. If you have any answers into how live changes please share your experience so that I could have perspective and not live in a bubble.

Strongleo
Strongleo
My dear I have to tell you that it all depends on u now, how u decide to live your life, do not let this disease define u, I've been positive 16 yrs now and from the very first day I found out I decided that it will not kill me, so I did all that I needed to do for myself, such as taking my pills and stay healthy in other ways... I've been undetectable for almost 16 yrs, few months after I started my meds, God is good,stay strong !
mes1424
mes1424
Your life should be relatively the same. It shouldn't define you by any means, just remember you have a Chronic Illness. Be honest w/a potential sexual partner. Keep up w/ your Bloodwork, try to have someone in your life that you can confide in regarding this diagnosis, & take precautions when needed for your own safety.

Bubble has many variations defined by character. I've been poz over 34 years, 815CD4 & UD & % @ 32. I'm, still in a very good zone. Current job is like wicked stressful. I'm aware of derogatory ramifications of stress. All I can do @ this point is observe my BW #'s. After 34 & being my own advocate (Dr's work4me) Things have been uneventful