Hi. My question is about HIV. I've been infected with HIV for 5 years or so and I just got my first CD4 and viral load counts 2 days ago. My CD4 is 761 and my viral load is <40. I've been sick a lot lately, not really sick but just not feeling so well. My question is, why is my CD4 is still high when I've been sick quite often lately, and is <40 considered as low or high for viral load when having been infected for 5 years?
Normal CD4 ranges from 500 to over 1200. A cd4 of 761 is within the normal range but it would have been more interesting if you had an initial cd4 when you were diagnosed so as to compare with the present one in-order to know if the cd4 is dropping or not.
Viral load of less than 40 is a testimony of your cd4 that is still within normal range. When viral load usually increases, cd4 decreases. Your high cd4 explains why the viral load is low.
It is important to note that you can have other illnesses not just because you are HIV positive. But whatever the case, meeting a doctor for thorough examination is key.
Best regards Dr Achuo
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: Get personalized answers to your HIV related queries You can choose to talk face to face with your doctor. Book a Video Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
How Can Cd4 Count Be High Despite Being Unwell?
Hello, thanks for the query. Normal CD4 ranges from 500 to over 1200. A cd4 of 761 is within the normal range but it would have been more interesting if you had an initial cd4 when you were diagnosed so as to compare with the present one in-order to know if the cd4 is dropping or not. Viral load of less than 40 is a testimony of your cd4 that is still within normal range. When viral load usually increases, cd4 decreases. Your high cd4 explains why the viral load is low. It is important to note that you can have other illnesses not just because you are HIV positive. But whatever the case, meeting a doctor for thorough examination is key. Best regards Dr Achuo