HIV/AIDS Summary Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV impairs the immune system, reducing its ability to combat infections and diseases. Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS over several years. However, treatments have made it so that most people in the U.S. do not develop AIDS.
Transmission HIV is transmitted through genital contact during unprotected sex, blood contact, such as sharing needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Treatment There is no cure for HIV/AIDS, but medications can manage the infection and prevent the disease from worsening. Antiviral treatments have decreased AIDS-related deaths globally, and efforts continue to improve prevention and treatment access in under-resourced areas.
Symptoms Symptoms of HIV/AIDS can vary and are categorized into stages:
Acute HIV (Primary Infection)
- Flu-like illness within 2 to 4 weeks after infection
- Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, sore throat, mouth sores, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea, weight loss, cough, and night sweats
- High viral load and increased risk of transmission
Chronic HIV (Clinical Latent Infection)
- HIV remains in white blood cells
- Many individuals experience no symptoms
- Without antiretroviral therapy (ART), this stage can last years
Symptomatic HIV Infection
- Ongoing multiplication of the virus and destruction of immune cells
- Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea, weight loss, oral yeast infections, shingles, and pneumonia
Progression to AIDS
- Significant damage to the immune system
- Increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and cancers
- Symptoms of opportunistic infections may include recurrent fever, persistent diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, persistent oral lesions, chronic fatigue, weakness, rapid weight loss, and skin issues
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider If you suspect you’ve been exposed to HIV or are at risk of contracting the virus, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly.
Understanding HIV Causes HIV is a virus that can be transmitted through sexual activity, sharing needles during drug use, and exposure to infected blood. It can also be passed from a parent to their child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
HIV targets and destroys CD4 T cells, which are vital for the immune system’s defense against illness. A decline in CD4 T cells compromises immune strength.
The Transition from HIV to AIDS An individual may carry HIV asymptomatically for years before it escalates to AIDS. AIDS is identified when the CD4 T cell count drops below 200 or when AIDS-specific complications, like certain infections or cancers, arise.
Modes of HIV Transmission HIV can be contracted through:
- Sexual contact: Infection can occur during unprotected vaginal or anal intercourse. Oral sex has a lower risk. The virus can infiltrate the body through sores in the mouth or tears in the rectum or vagina.
- Needle sharing: Using contaminated needles for drug injection significantly increases the risk of HIV and other diseases like hepatitis.
- Blood transfusions: Although rare due to rigorous screening, there’s a slight chance of contracting HIV from donor blood, especially in regions without comprehensive blood testing.
- Mother-to-child transmission: HIV-positive pregnant individuals can transmit the virus to their offspring. However, treatment during pregnancy can substantially reduce this risk.
How HIV Does Not Spread HIV cannot be contracted through casual interactions such as hugging, kissing, dancing, or handshakes. It is not airborne, waterborne, or spread by insects or donating blood.
Risk Factors for HIV/AIDS HIV/AIDS can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or sexual orientation. Risks are higher for those who:
- Engage in unprotected sex: Always use a new condom for each sexual encounter. Anal intercourse presents a higher risk than vaginal sex.
- Have an STI: STIs can cause open sores, making it easier for HIV to enter the body.
- Use injectable drugs: Sharing needles exposes individuals to infected blood.
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Complications of HIV Infection HIV compromises the immune system, significantly increasing susceptibility to various infections and certain cancers.
Infections Linked to HIV/AIDS
- Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP): A serious fungal infection, now less common in the U.S. due to effective HIV/AIDS treatments.
- Candidiasis (Thrush): A frequent infection in HIV patients, causing a white coating in the mouth and other mucous membranes.
- Tuberculosis (TB): An opportunistic infection associated with HIV, TB remains a major cause of death globally among those with AIDS, though less prevalent in the U.S.
- Cytomegalovirus: A herpes virus that remains dormant until the immune system weakens, then can cause organ damage.
- Cryptococcal meningitis: Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord’s protective membranes, caused by a soil-borne fungus.
- Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection from cats that can lead to severe health issues, including heart disease and potentially fatal brain complications.
Cancers Associated with HIV/AIDS
- Lymphoma: Cancer originating in white blood cells, often presenting as painless lymph node swelling.
- Kaposi sarcoma: A tumor affecting blood vessel walls, visible as lesions on the skin and mucous membranes, and can involve internal organs.
- HPV-related cancers: Cancers stemming from HPV infection, including anal, oral, and cervical cancers.
Other Health Issues
- Wasting syndrome: Significant weight loss accompanied by diarrhea, weakness, and fever.
- Neurological complications: A range of symptoms from confusion and memory issues to severe dementia.
- Kidney disease (HIVAN): Inflammation of kidney filters, more common in Black and Hispanic individuals.
- Liver disease: A significant concern, especially for those with co-infections like hepatitis B or C.
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Preventing HIV Infection While there is no vaccine or cure for HIV/AIDS, there are effective ways to prevent infection and transmission.
Strategies to Prevent HIV Spread:
- Preexposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Oral medications like emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Truvada) and emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (Descovy), and the injectable cabotegravir (Apretude), can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission in high-risk individuals.
- Treatment as Prevention (TasP): For those with HIV, adhering to HIV medication regimens can prevent transmission to partners, especially when viral loads are undetectable.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If potential exposure occurs, starting PEP within 72 hours and continuing for 28 days can greatly lower the risk of contracting HIV.
- Consistent Condom Use: Employing new condoms for each sexual encounter and using water-based lubricants can protect against HIV and other STIs.
- Safe Needle Practices: Utilizing sterile needles and participating in needle-exchange programs can prevent HIV spread among drug users.
- Disclosure: Informing current and past sexual partners about HIV status is crucial for their health and testing decisions.
- Prenatal Care: Pregnant individuals with HIV should seek immediate medical attention to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.
- Male Circumcision: Circumcision has been shown to decrease the risk of acquiring HIV.
Note: These preventive measures are essential for controlling the spread of HIV and maintaining public health. If you need more detailed information or have specific questions, please let me know.
