CAN I BE AFFECTED?
HIV-associated wasting can be treated, but first you have to talk to your doctor
It’s important to identify if you think you may have HIV-associated wasting so you can speak with your doctor and get treatment. Learn more about how you can determine if you’re at risk.
CAN I BE AFFECTED?
HIV-associated wasting can be treated, but first you have to talk to your doctor
It’s important to identify if you think you may have HIV-associated wasting so you can speak with your doctor and get treatment. Learn more about how you can determine if you’re at risk.
HIV-associated wasting can affect anyone living with HIV
There isn’t just one type of person who gets HIV-wasting.
HIV-associated wasting affects many different people, including:
- People who are newly diagnosed with HIV
- Among those with advanced HIV disease, one-third will present with wasting
- Poor virologic responders
- People living with HIV and on HIV meds who fail to gain weight
- HIV Long-Term Survivors
- People on HIV meds who have, or have had, an acute infection
- HIV-positive patients with normal CD4 counts and controlled viral loads
- Those who have not been adherent to antiretroviral treatment
You may experience HIV-associated wasting even when your virus is well controlled on antiretroviral treatments.
So, how do I know if I have HIV-associated wasting?
Only a healthcare professional can diagnose you with HIV-associated wasting, but the questions below may help you know if it’s time to have a conversation with your doctor.
ASK YOURSELF:
Do I have unintentional weight loss?
- Do the changes in my weight negatively affect my health and how I feel?
- Do my clothes fit more loosely than normal due to unintentional weight loss?
- Have I lost weight without trying?
- Have my family, friends, or co-workers noticed any changes in the way I look or my body based on changes in my weight?
Do I have a loss of energy, along with a loss of weight?
- Are there activities that are more difficult for me to perform?
- Am I exercising less?
- Do I need to rest more often?
- Do I frequently feel tired after certain activities?
If you answered “yes” to some of these questions, then you should speak with your healthcare provider about HIV-associated wasting. Need help getting the conversation started? Download our Discussion Guide