Demented and sad

Why on earth am I just now finding out about HIV dementia, otherwise known as "neuroAIDS." For the last two years, or so, I have seen numerous neurological specialists for what I now believe are/were neuroAIDS symptoms. My symptoms include: Memory lapses, slurred speech, "brain farts" -- especially when speaking to others -- along with periods of confusion and disorientation. For the most part, I attributed my symptoms to the chronic fatigue I have endured for the last few years. Of course, these symptoms aren't a constant problem, or I wouldn't be writing this post, now. However, after three MRIs and myriad neurological consultations, no one ever even remotely suggested an HIV relationship to my symptoms. What utter idiots doctors can be! And yes, all of the physicians involved were well aware of my diagnosis.

Anyway, I have encountered some uncanny deja vu moments along my path to HIV "enlightenment." Interestingly enough, while talking with the folks at Meridian's, yesterday, the doctor and his assistant immediately recognized my symptoms as HIV dementia. Then, today, I find this story in my inbox:

October 4, 2006
Remember HIV Dementia?

I had no idea there were such potentially dire neurological consequences for 20% of HIV patients. My grandmother suffered from Alzheimers, and I seriously thought I was beginning to experience early-onset Alzheimers. In a way, I guess I was right.

Thank God that I found AIM!