Q: I am a 38 years old female suffering from HIV. I got infected from my husband who died 12 years back. My CD4 count is 150, viral load is 2,70,078 and I have just started anti-retroviral therapy. I want to know how long I can survive? Can anti-retroviral therapy prevent all illnesses?

A:I am glad to learn that you are keeping in good health and have now started anti-retroviral therapy. If you follow some very basic rules, ART can help to keep you well for a very long time.

• The first rule you must follow is that having stated ART you are100% regular in taking the prescribed medicines. Please do not miss any doses and always remember that irregular ART can lead to developing resistance to the concerned drugs.
• You must also continue to seek medical help for all illnesses. Do not ignore any illness
• Stick to a regular life-style with nutritious food, plenty of rest and regular exercise