Eating well and staying physically active are essential to managing HIV, but so is getting regular health checkups to monitor your overall health and well-being. Your HIV healthcare team should include these professionals. HIV Doctor “Anyone with HIV should have a doctor experienced in treating HIV as part of his or her treatment team,” says Laura Guderian, MD, an infectious disease specialist at One Medical Group in New York. Your primary HIV doctor should be board-certified in infectious diseases, HIV medicine, or a related specialty that involves a strong understanding of HIV. You’ll be working closely with your primary HIV doctor as you make decisions about your treatment, so be sure this healthcare provider is someone you feel comfortable with. “When you first begin HIV treatment, you may be seeing your HIV doctor more regularly — every two to four weeks or more often, depending on your needs,” says Dr. Guderian. “Once you’re stable on your medication and your HIV viral load is undetectable, you can expect to see your HIV doctor every three to four months to make sure your treatment is working well and you’re receiving all the recommended preventive services, such as vaccines and health screenings.” Dentist HIV increases your risk for oral health problems because your compromised immune system is less able to fight off infection. People with HIV may be more likely to develop oral problems, including these conditions:
InfectionsTooth decayDry mouthGingivitisPeriodontitis (bone loss around the teeth)Canker sores or fever blistersOral wartsThrushHairy leukoplakia (a rough, white patch on the tongue)
“It’s important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings every six months,” says Guderian. “Poor dental health can increase your risk for serious infections and even increase your risk for cardiovascular disease and cancer.” Pharmacist Where you get your prescriptions filled matters. Choose a pharmacist who’s knowledgeable about HIV medications. A review of 32 studies found that the involvement of HIV-trained pharmacists significantly improved how well people followed their HIV treatment plan and had a positive impact on their viral suppression. Your pharmacist can help answer any questions you might have about how to take your meds and drug side effects. Nutritionist Proper nutrition is an essential part of your HIV treatment. Some people with HIV also develop issues that can lead to nutrition-related problems. For instance, HIV-related infections can make eating or swallowing more difficult. A nutritionist can work with you to create meal plans that provide the nutrients you need to support your immune system and keep up your energy level. A nutritionist familiar with HIV will also know how to modify your diet so you continue to nourish your body even if your medications affect your appetite. Case Manager or Social Worker Life with HIV can be draining at times. Having a case manager or social worker in your corner can ease some of the stress and strain. They can help you schedule and keep medical appointments, locate and apply for programs that offer assistance, obtain housing, connect you with support groups, and more. Patient navigators are also professionals who are trained to help you navigate the healthcare system. Many hospitals and organizations can connect you with these experts. Therapist If you have HIV, mental health problems can affect your ability to cope with the condition or follow your treatment plan. If you or your loved ones notice that your mental health is affecting your ability to cope or function, talk with your doctor about seeing a mental health professional, such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. You can also find help through an HIV support group. Substance Abuse Specialist If you struggle with substance abuse or have had issues in the past, a professional in this field can provide advice and support. You may also need special treatments to help you recover from an addiction. You. No one knows your body and mind like you do. It’s up to you to communicate with the members of your healthcare team to let them know when you notice any changes in your physical or mental health. If side effects from your medications are taking a toll or discouraging you from following your treatment plan, let your primary HIV doctor know. One of the most important HIV treatment steps you can take for yourself is staying on top of your appointment schedule with your various healthcare providers. You don’t want to forget or skip appointments — these routine visits might catch something that could have serious health implications if left undetected. Keep your appointments logged in one place you can easily access. Your phone may have a calendar and notes app, or you might prefer a physical date book where you can write down your appointments. There are also newer apps, such as Life4me+, which help you track your medication use and establish communication with your doctors. You may want to jot down questions you want to ask and record notes for your doctor, which will allow you to maximize every appointment or office visit. Remember, with the right medication and care from qualified doctors, you can reach an undetectable viral load, which is the goal of HIV treatment.
