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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can HIV Postive For 24 Years Cause Dementia?

Over the last few weeks I am finding it difficult to concentrate and I seem to be forgetting a lot of simple things. I have been HIV+ for the last 24 years. I am symptomatic with peripheral neuropathy in both legs and feet. My CD4 count is around 200. I have been taking Atripla for more than 3 years. My cholesterol is pretty high due to the HIV medications. I also have Stage 3 chronic kidney disease. I am beginning to wonder if I am getting dementia from the HIV?
Mon, 26 May 2014
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's  Response
Hello. This is dr. Herisa Palla reading carefully your concern. hiv/253657?iL=true" >AIDS dementia is a condition caused by the direct effects of the virus on the brain. HIV gains entry into the central nervous system and starts a chain of events such as he virus may indirectly inflame them or kill them that may lead to slowed and impaired thinking, memory problems, tremors, gait problems and other signs and symptoms. AIDS dementia typically occurs in persons with advanced AIDS, ie. people who have a rising viral load and a failing immune system(CD4 less than 200) due to inadequate or ineffective treatment. Because the strategies to treat ADC are different, I suggest you to see a doctor, so that you can be checked and the treatment should be established according to further checking. Although you can receive treatment for AIDS Dementia, it may take some time for you to get better. Best regards
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Can HIV Postive For 24 Years Cause Dementia?

Hello. This is dr. Herisa Palla reading carefully your concern. AIDS dementia is a condition caused by the direct effects of the virus on the brain. HIV gains entry into the central nervous system and starts a chain of events such as he virus may indirectly inflame them or kill them that may lead to slowed and impaired thinking, memory problems, tremors, gait problems and other signs and symptoms. AIDS dementia typically occurs in persons with advanced AIDS, ie. people who have a rising viral load and a failing immune system(CD4 less than 200) due to inadequate or ineffective treatment. Because the strategies to treat ADC are different, I suggest you to see a doctor, so that you can be checked and the treatment should be established according to further checking. Although you can receive treatment for AIDS Dementia, it may take some time for you to get better. Best regards