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QUESTIONS TO ASK
Review the following 'Questions To Ask' about HIV/AIDS so you're prepared to discuss this important health issue with your health care professional.
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What is your experience treating HIV-positive patients? Do you have specialized training in this area?
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How soon should I begin treatment for AIDS? What are the pros and cons of starting drug therapy early in the course of infection?
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What are the main side effects of antiviral drugs?
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Once I start treatment do I have to continue taking the drugs for the rest of my life?
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What is my viral load (the amount of virus in my blood) and my CD4 count, and what does it tell me about my illness?
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Are there alternative therapies I can consider instead of or in addition to these powerful new drugs?
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If I get pregnant, can I still deliver a healthy baby? What can be done to protect my baby from AIDS?
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Should I avoid breastfeeding my baby if I have AIDS? Why?
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What are the chances of my sexual partner becoming infected if we use condoms?
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I need to talk to other people with AIDS, who understand what I'm going through. Where can I find a support group?
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How does HIV infection affect my risk for developing infections and other complications?
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How can I keep up with new advances in fighting HIV infection and its complications?
