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HIV-AIDS

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:- HIV-AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which are vital for fighting infections. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a severe stage where the immune system is too weak to combat life-threatening infections and cancers.

Thanks to advances in medicine, HIV is no longer a death sentence. With proper care and antiretroviral therapy (ART), individuals living with HIV can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Let’s dive into essential details about HIV/AIDS, including medications, causes, symptoms, and prevention.

Causes of HIV

HIV spreads when certain bodily fluids from an infected person enter the bloodstream of another. Common modes of transmission include:

  • Unprotected sexual contact with an HIV-positive person.

  • Sharing needles or syringes for drug use.

  • Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding.

  • Blood transfusions (very rare in countries with strict screening processes).

 

Health Conditions Linked to HIV

If untreated, HIV weakens the immune system, leading to complications such as:

  • Opportunistic infections (e.g., tuberculosis, pneumonia).

  • Certain cancers like Kaposi's sarcoma or lymphoma.

  • Chronic conditions like wasting syndrome and persistent diarrhea.

 

Symptoms of HIV/AIDS

HIV symptoms vary by stage:

1. Early Stage (Acute HIV)

  • Flu-like symptoms: Fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.

  • Rash and body aches.

2. Latent Stage (Asymptomatic)

  • No noticeable symptoms, but the virus continues to damage the immune system.

3. Advanced Stage (AIDS)

  • Extreme fatigue.

  • Rapid weight loss.

  • Persistent fever and night sweats.

  • Opportunistic infections and recurring illnesses.

Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS

Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. Common diagnostic methods include:

  1. Rapid Tests: Detect antibodies or antigens using a finger prick or oral swab.

  2. ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): A blood test confirming the presence of HIV.

  3. CD4 Count: Measures immune system strength.

  4. Viral Load Test: Determines the amount of HIV in the blood.

 

HIV/AIDS Medications

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is the cornerstone of HIV treatment. ART involves a combination of drugs that suppress the virus, preventing it from multiplying and damaging the immune system.

 

Common Types of HIV Medications

  1. NRTIs (Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors): Block the reverse transcriptase enzyme (e.g., Zidovudine, Tenofovir).

  2. NNRTIs (Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors): Prevent viral replication (e.g., Efavirenz, Nevirapine).

  3. PIs (Protease Inhibitors): Inhibit protease enzymes, blocking virus assembly (e.g., Ritonavir, Atazanavir).

  4. INSTIs (Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors): Prevent the virus from inserting its genetic material into CD4 cells (e.g., Dolutegravir, Raltegravir).

  5. Entry and Fusion Inhibitors: Block the virus from entering CD4 cells (e.g., Enfuvirtide).

 

Side Effects of HIV Medications

While ART is highly effective, some individuals may experience side effects, such as:

  • Nausea and diarrhea.

  • Fatigue or headaches.

  • Lipodystrophy (fat redistribution in the body).

  • Insomnia or vivid dreams (common with NNRTIs).

It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to manage side effects.

 

Prevention of HIV

Preventing HIV requires awareness and action:

  1. Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms consistently and correctly.

  2. Regular Testing: Early detection helps prevent transmission.

  3. Avoid Sharing Needles: Always use sterile syringes.

  4. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): A daily medication for high-risk individuals to prevent HIV.

  5. PMTCT (Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission): ART during pregnancy reduces transmission risk.

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