I was diagnosed with HIV two weeks ago, and at that time I had thrush which with meds is going away. This last week I have been having issues with catching my breath. I get out of the car I get winded, I go up the stairs I am winded (more than usual), anything I do I get winded. I don't have my blood results back yet so I don't know what my counts are and I see the HIV doc on Jan 12th. Should I make an appointment with my primary physcian or wait until I see the HIV doc on the 12th? It doesn't seem to be getting any better as I have developed a cough and green phlem the last three days. I am just concerned it could be an infection and then tun into something else. Advice? Thanks!!

Hi,

I agree: a cough productive of green phlegm should be checked out sooner rather than later. You could well have a respiratory tract infection, which could account for some of your shortness of breath. However, in light of your HIV disease, other potential causes should also be checked out as well, anemia for instance can be associated with exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, fatigue and a host of other symptoms.

Good luck.

Dr. Bob