If you are living with HIV, regular blood tests are crucial to monitor your health and ensure that your medications are working effectively. The specific tests you need may vary based on your individual health status and the medications you are taking, but here are some of the most common tests recommended for people with HIV:

By Cindy Pivacic.

1. CD4 count: This test measures the number of CD4 cells, which are a type of white blood cell that helps the immune system fight infections. A low CD4 count can indicate that HIV is damaging your immune system.

2.Viral load: This test measures the amount of HIV in your blood. A high viral load can indicate that your HIV medications are not working effectively.

3.Full blood count (FBC): This test measures the number of different types of blood cells in your body, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Abnormalities in these levels can indicate anaemia or other health issues.

4.Kidney and liver function tests: These tests measure how well your kidneys and liver are working. HIV medications can sometimes cause damage to these organs, so it’s important to monitor their function regularly.

The frequency of these tests may vary depending on your individual situation, but in general, they should be done every 6 months. However, if you have recently been diagnosed with HIV or are starting new medications, you may need to have these tests more frequently (every 3 months). Your healthcare provider can advise you on the applicable frequency of testing based on your individual health status.

AllLife Website states that ‘AllLife will remind policyholders to go for their blood tests every six months. As long as policyholders comply and the tests show that they are taking their antiretroviral treatment, their cover will continue.

If the blood tests show that the antiretroviral treatment is not working, policyholders are expected to visit their doctor and change their treatment to a more effective programme’.

This is one way to remind you to keep up your blood test maintenance AND be insured, win-win!

A chronic condition can affect anyone. How you manage it is what makes the difference.

You can get cover of up to 3 million rand for your chronic health condition and up to 10 million if you are living with HIV.

SMS CHRONIC to 33857 to find out more. 

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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure, and is not a substitute for professional consultation with a health professional.

We believe all South Africans should have Life Cover.

Another first from AllLife who have always believed that all South Africans should have Life Cover, regardless of their health.

You are guaranteed a minimum of R 3 Million Life Cover without any medical test, but you could qualify for up to R 10 Million depending on your circumstances.

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