THE BASICS OF HIV AND AIDS. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

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HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is an infectious agent that targets and weakens the immune system, increasing a person’s susceptibility to infections and diseases. When left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which represents the most severe phase of the disease. AIDS occurs when the immune system becomes severely damaged by the virus, leaving individuals vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Understanding how HIV is transmitted is crucial for prevention. The virus spreads through specific bodily fluids like blood, semen, and vaginal fluids from an infected person. Common transmission methods include unprotected sexual contact and sharing injection drug equipment. Importantly, HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging or sharing food, which helps dispel common myths outlined by WHO.

Effective management of HIV with antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows many individuals to live long, healthy lives. ART not only helps control the virus but also prevents its transmission, underlining the importance of early detection and treatment. Learning about the stages and treatment options for HIV can empower individuals with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and others, and improve quality of life according to the Mayo Clinic.

CONTENTS

1. UNDERSTANDING HIV AND AIDS

• DEFINITION OF HIV
• DEFINITION OF AIDS
• THE CONNECTION BETWEEN HIV AND AIDS

2. TRANSMISSION OF HIV

• SEXUAL TRANSMISSION
• BLOOD TRANSMISSIONS
• MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION

4. SYMPTOMS AND STAGES OF HIV INFECTION

• ACUTE INFECTION STAGE
• CLINICAL LATENCY STAGE
• AIDS: ADVANCED HIV INFECTION

5. DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

• HIV ANTIBODY TESTS
• ANTIGEN/ANTIBODY TESTS
• NUCLEIC ACID TESTS (NATS)

6. TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF HIV/AIDS

• ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY (ART)
• ADHERENCE TO TREATMENT
• MANAGING SIDE EFFECTS AND CO-INFECTIONS

HIV and AIDS impact millions globally, altering immune function significantly. HIV targets the body’s cells that fight infection, while AIDS signifies the advanced stage of HIV.

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks specific cells in the body’s immune system, particularly CD4 cells (T cells). Over time and without treatment, HIV can destroy so many of these cells that the body can’t fight off infections and diseases effectively.

Transmission occurs through contact with certain bodily fluids like blood, semen, and breast milk. Common ways HIV is spread include unprotected sexual contact and sharing needles. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can control the virus, enabling a healthier life.

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is the most severe phase of HIV infection. During this stage, the immune system is badly damaged, leading to severe infections and cancers that take advantage of this weakened state. When the CD4 cell count falls below 200 cells per cubic millimeter, or opportunistic infections develop, a diagnosis of AIDS is made.

Without treatment, people typically survive about three years. With appropriate medical care, including ART, progression to AIDS can usually be prevented. Early detection and continuous treatment are vital.

HIV and AIDS are intrinsically linked, with HIV being the virus that can eventually lead to the condition known as AIDS. Not everyone with HIV will develop AIDS if they receive consistent treatment. Once a person has AIDS, they are more prone to opportunistic infections due to the weakened immune system.

Effective treatment can drastically improve quality of life and extend lifespan. Access to resources like antiretroviral therapy is essential for managing HIV effectively and preventing the progression to AIDS. Understanding these differences helps dismantle misconceptions about the two and highlights the importance of early diagnosis and continuous care.

HIV spreads through the exchange of certain body fluids. Sexual activity, blood contact, and mother-to-child transmission are the primary modes of transmission. Understanding these pathways can aid in the effective prevention and management of HIV.

HIV is predominantly spread through sexual contact. Engaging in unprotected sex without a condom or HIV-preventative medication significantly increases the risk. Both vaginal and anal sex are common routes for HIV transmission, with anal sex carrying a higher risk.

The presence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can further elevate the likelihood of transmission, making it essential to get regularly tested for STIs. Consistent and correct use of protection and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce HIV transmission risk significantly during sexual activities.

HIV can be transmitted through blood. Sharing needles or syringes is a significant risk factor because it allows direct blood-to-blood contact. This is a prevalent concern among individuals who inject drugs.

Additionally, although rare, transfusions with HIV-contaminated blood can lead to transmission. In many parts of the world, blood is rigorously tested for HIV to reduce this risk. It’s advisable to ensure that all medical procedures involving injections are conducted with sterile equipment. This minimizes exposure to potential HIV transmission through blood.

Mother-to-child transmission, also known as perinatal transmission, can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Without treatment, around 15-45% of infants born to HIV-positive mothers might contract the virus.

However, with antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy and childbirth, the transmission risk drops significantly. Safe delivery practices and the use of formula milk instead of breastfeeding can further lessen this risk. For mothers living with HIV, regular medical consultation is crucial to prevent transmitting the virus to the child effectively.

HIV progresses through distinct stages, each with specific symptoms and characteristics. Understanding these stages is crucial for effective management and treatment.

This initial phase occurs about 2 to 4 weeks after HIV enters the body. Often called primary or acute HIV infection, it resembles a severe flu. Symptoms can include fever, chills, rashes, and night sweats as the body reacts to HIV.

Some individuals might experience sore throat, headache, muscle aches, or swollen lymph nodes. These manifestations are the body’s response to the rapid increase of the virus. It’s important to note that not everyone will show symptoms in this stage. The virus is highly transmissible during this period due to its elevated presence in the bloodstream.

During the clinical latency stage, also known as chronic HIV infection or asymptomatic phase, the virus reproduces at lower levels. Individuals might not show any symptoms and can go years without significant signs of illness, yet HIV continues to be active.

Without treatment, this phase can last a decade or longer, but some might progress faster. Regular monitoring and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are essential because they help maintain low viral activity, preventing the virus from advancing to the next stage.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the final and most severe phase of HIV infection. Without adequate treatment, advanced HIV compromises the immune system, leaving the individual vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Common symptoms include persistent fevers, chronic fatigue, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes.

AIDS is diagnosed when the CD4 cell count drops below 200 cells/mm³ or certain opportunistic infections occur. Effective antiretroviral therapy can help manage symptoms and prevent progression to this stage. Regular medical care and adherence to prescribed treatments are crucial in maintaining overall health during this stage.

Diagnosing HIV involves various types of tests that detect antibodies, antigens, or viral RNA. Understanding these tests is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of the disease.

HIV antibody tests are among the most common diagnostic tools for detecting HIV. These tests work by identifying antibodies that the immune system produces in response to HIV. The most frequently used test in this category is the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results from HIV antibody tests can take from a few days to weeks. The Western blot test is sometimes used to confirm positive results from an ELISA test. False negatives may occur if the test is taken too soon after exposure because antibodies might not be detectable during the window period.

Antigen/antibody tests are highly effective in detecting HIV infection early. These tests not only identify antibodies in the blood but also detect the p24 antigen, a protein associated with HIV. The presence of p24 antigens allows for early detection, as they appear before antibodies are formed.

These tests can often diagnose an infection within 18 to 45 days after exposure. They are commonly conducted as part of standard blood tests in clinics or hospitals. Their efficiency in early detection makes them a critical tool in controlling the spread of HIV.

Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs) are capable of detecting the virus’s genetic material. They are highly sensitive and can identify HIV infection as early as 10 to 33 days after exposure. NATs are particularly useful in early diagnosis cases with high-risk exposure or where symptoms are present, yet other tests return negative.

These tests are usually more expensive and are not part of standard HIV screenings. They are often used in cases where a recent infection is suspected or when there is potential exposure that requires confirmation. Due to their high specificity, NATs play a vital role when rapid and accurate diagnosis is needed.

For more detailed information on related topics, check out the testing guidelines provided by the CDC and explore the diagnostic procedures discussed by Stanford Health Care.

Effective management of HIV/AIDS primarily involves antiretroviral therapy (ART), adherence to this treatment, and managing potential side effects and co-infections. Addressing these aspects can lead to improved health outcomes and reduced transmission risk.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the cornerstone of HIV treatment. It involves a combination of HIV medicines that must be taken regularly. The goal is to reduce the viral load in a person’s body to undetectable levels, thus slowing the progression of the disease. Mayo Clinic explains that even if symptoms are not present, this treatment approach is crucial. ART doesn’t cure HIV, but NIH notes it enables people to live long and healthy lives while also reducing transmission risk.

Adherence to ART is critical for its success. Patients are advised to follow their treatment plan precisely to maintain viral suppression. Missing doses can lead to drug resistance, making the virus harder to treat. It’s essential for patients to consult healthcare providers for guidance. Barriers to adherence, such as side effects or medication fatigue, should be addressed early. Creating a routine and using reminders can help patients maintain adherence. Regular consultations with healthcare professionals facilitate adjustments to the regimen if necessary.

HIV treatment can lead to side effects and interactions, particularly with hormone-based therapies. CDC stresses the importance of discussing these with healthcare providers. Common side effects include nausea and fatigue, which can often be managed with medical advice and lifestyle adjustments. Co-infections, such as tuberculosis or hepatitis, require careful management to avoid complications. Identifying and treating these at early stages is vital for supporting the patient’s overall health. Combining therapies for co-infections demands coordination between specialists to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the treatment plan.