When should someone start taking HIV treatment?

There are varying opinions on when is the best time to begin HIV treatment; however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends starting antiretroviral treatment if an individual has a history of opportunistic infections (OIs) or other severe symptoms of HIV disease, or if their T-cell count is between the range of 350 to 200. Preventative treatment against Pneumocystis pneumonia and other OIs is recommended when the CD4 count indicates severe immune suppression. The bottom line is that treatment is a personal choice; it is helpful for an individual to find a doctor that they can trust and who can help them determine what treatment strategy makes the most sense for them.

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1. What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
2. What is an Opportunistic Infection (OI)?
3. Where did HIV come from?
4. How is someone infected with HIV?
5. Can I get HIV from casual contact with someone who is infected?
6. How can someone reduce the risk of being infected with HIV?
7. How does someone know if they are infected with HIV?
8. What are the symptoms of HIV infection?
9. Is there a cure for HIV?
10. Does everyone who has HIV eventually develop AIDS?
11. Where should someone begin if they want to get HIV care?
12. When should someone start taking HIV treatment?
13. How much does HIV care cost?
14. If someone is diagnosed with AIDS, does that mean they will die soon?
15. If someone is HIV positive, what else can they do to stay healthy?