Understanding HIV and AIDS: Breaking Down the Basics

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV reduces the number of these cells, making the body more vulnerable to other infections and diseases.
 

How is HIV Transmitted?

HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids from a person who has HIV. These fluids include:

• Blood

• Semen (cum) and pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum)

• Rectal fluids

• Vaginal fluids

• Breast milk

The most common ways HIV is transmitted (causes of AIDS) include:

1. Unprotected Sexual Contact: This is the most common mode of transmission. HIV can be transmitted during anal, vaginal, or oral sex with an infected person.

2. Sharing Needles: HIV can be transmitted by sharing needles or syringes with someone who has HIV.

3. Mother-to-Child Transmission: HIV can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

4. Blood Transfusions and Organ Transplants: Although rare in countries where blood is screened for HIV, it can still occur.

Consult our infectious disease expert in Delhi if you are experiencing HIV symptoms.

What is AIDS?

AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, and not everyone who has HIV will develop AIDS. AIDS is diagnosed when the number of CD4 cells falls below 200 cells per cubic millimetre of blood (200 cells/mm³) or if the person develops certain opportunistic infections or cancers that are common in people with severe immune deficiencies.

Addressing common myths about HIV and the facts that dispel them:

Symptoms of HIV and AIDS

What are the symptoms of HIV in females and males 

Early Stage of HIV (Acute HIV Infection)

• Common Symptoms of HIV: Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers.

• Duration: These symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks.

Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency Stage)

• Activity: HIV is still active but reproduces at very low levels.

• Symptoms: People may not have any symptoms or only mild ones.

• Duration: Without treatment, this stage can last a decade or longer, but some may progress faster.

AIDS

• Rapid weight loss

• Recurring fever or profuse night sweats

• Extreme and unexplained tiredness

• Prolonged swelling of the lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck

• Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week

• Sores of the mouth, anus, or genitals

• Pneumonia

• Red, brown, pink, or purplish blotches on or under the skin or inside the mouth, nose, or eyelids

• Memory loss, depression, and other neurologic disorders

Prevention of HIV

Preventing HIV involves several strategies:

• Safe Sex Practices: Using condoms correctly every time you have sex can greatly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): This is a daily medication for people at high risk of HIV to prevent infection.

• Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): This is an emergency medication taken within 72 hours after a possible exposure to HIV.

• Regular Testing: Knowing your HIV status helps you take steps to protect yourself and others.

• Avoid Sharing Needles: Use new, sterile needles and syringes if you inject drugs.

• Mother-to-Child Transmission Prevention: Pregnant women with HIV should take HIV medicines to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their babies.

What is the Treatment for HIV?

Although there is currently no cure for HIV, it can be effectively managed with proper medical care. The primary treatment for HIV is antiretroviral therapy (ART), which requires taking a combination of HIV medications daily. ART helps reduce the viral load (the amount of HIV in the blood) to undetectable levels, which keeps the immune system working and prevents illness.

Living with HIV

With the right treatment and care, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives. It's important for people with HIV to:

• Take their HIV medicines as prescribed.

• See their healthcare provider regularly.

• Get vaccinated against other infections.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups

Encouraging Regular HIV Testing

To overcome these challenges and promote regular HIV testing, several strategies can be implemented:

1. Education and Awareness Campaigns: Public health campaigns can educate people about the importance of HIV testing and how it can benefit their health and the health of their communities. These campaigns can also address myths and misconceptions about HIV.

2. Integrating Testing into Routine Healthcare: Making HIV testing a standard part of routine medical check-ups can normalize the process and encourage more people to get tested. Healthcare providers should offer testing as part of regular health screenings.

3. Community-Based Testing: Bringing testing services to communities, especially those with limited access to healthcare, can increase testing rates. Mobile testing units, community health fairs, and partnerships with local organizations can make testing more accessible.

4. Confidential and Anonymous Testing: Offering confidential and anonymous testing options can help reduce the fear of stigma and discrimination. People are more likely to get tested if they know their privacy will be protected.

5. Support Services: Providing counselling and support services for individuals who test positive can help them cope with their diagnosis and understand their treatment options.  Support groups and mental health services can also be beneficial.

What is the Treatment for AIDS?

The treatment for AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) primarily involves managing the underlying HIV infection with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Here are the key components of AIDS treatment:

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)

• Purpose: ART involves taking a combination of HIV medicines daily to control the virus.

• Benefits: It reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, helps the immune system recover, and prevents the progression of HIV to AIDS.

• Outcome: With effective ART, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Treatment of Opportunistic Infections

• Purpose: People with AIDS are more susceptible to infections and certain cancers due to a weakened immune system.

• Approach: Treatment includes antibiotics, antifungals, and antivirals to manage these infections and prevent them from becoming severe.

Preventive Care

• Vaccinations: Keeping up with vaccinations to prevent infections like pneumonia and influenza.

• Prophylactic Medications: Taking medications to prevent opportunistic infections before they occur.

Regular Medical Monitoring

• Check-ups: Frequent medical visits to monitor the effectiveness of ART and manage any side effects.

• Lab Tests: Regular blood tests to check viral load and CD4 cell counts.

Supportive Care

• Mental Health: Access to mental health services to address the emotional and psychological impact of living with HIV/AIDS.

• Nutritional Support: Maintaining a healthy diet to support overall health and immune function.

Lifestyle Modifications

Healthy Living: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Consult our infectious disease hospital in Delhi if you are experiencing signs and symptoms of AIDS and need treatment.

The Common Differences Between HIV and AIDS

The Importance of Education and Awareness

Raising education and awareness is crucial in the battle against HIV and AIDS. Misconceptions and stigma surrounding HIV can prevent people from getting tested and seeking treatment. By spreading accurate information and promoting understanding, we can help reduce the stigma and support those affected by HIV.
 

Stigma and Discrimination

The Impact of Social Stigma on Testing and Treatment Uptake

Social stigma surrounding HIV can significantly hinder individuals from seeking testing and treatment. Fear of being judged, discriminated against, or ostracized often leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment, which can worsen health outcomes. This stigma can manifest in various forms, including negative attitudes, prejudice, and discriminatory actions from family, friends, healthcare providers, and the broader community. As a result, people may avoid getting tested or accessing treatment, leading to higher transmission rates and poorer health outcomes.

Legal and Societal Challenges Faced by People Living with HIV

People living with HIV (PLHIV) often face numerous legal and societal challenges. Discrimination in employment, healthcare, and education is common, with many experiencing breaches of confidentiality and denial of services. Legal systems in some countries criminalize HIV transmission, which can further stigmatize PLHIV and discourage them from disclosing their status or seeking care. Societal challenges include social isolation, mental health issues, and the burden of navigating a world that often lacks understanding and support for their condition.

Conclusion

Understanding the basics of HIV and AIDS is essential for prevention, treatment, and support. By knowing how HIV is transmitted, recognizing the symptoms, and understanding the importance of early treatment, we can work towards reducing the impact of this virus. Education, safe practices, and medical advancements are our best tools in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Choosing Manipal Hospitals Delhi means choosing a partner in health that is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for individuals living with HIV. With their expert team and comprehensive services, patients can be assured of receiving the best possible treatment and support.