HIV Symptoms

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), is a virus that attacks the immune system and gradually weakens it, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, and can be contracted through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

There are two main types of HIV: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-1 is the most common type of HIV, and it is found worldwide. HIV-2 is less common and is primarily found in West Africa.

HIV attacks the immune system by targeting CD4 cells, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in fighting infections. Over time, HIV destroys so many CD4 cells that the body becomes unable to fight off infections and diseases. When a person’s CD4 count falls below 200 cells per cubic millimeter of blood, they are diagnosed with AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

There is currently no cure for HIV, but there are medications available that can slow down the progression of the virus and prevent the development of AIDS. These medications are known as antiretroviral therapy (ART) and work by blocking the virus from replicating in the body.

It’s important to get tested for HIV if you believe you may have been exposed to the virus, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. Early detection and treatment of HIV can significantly improve a person’s quality of life and prevent the transmission of the virus to others.

HIV is often associated with stigma and discrimination, which can make it difficult for people living with HIV to access healthcare and support. It’s important to educate yourself about HIV and to approach the topic with compassion and understanding. With proper treatment and support, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.

Symptoms of HIV

People with HIV don’t usually have symptoms right away, so they may not know they have it. It can be years before HIV makes you feel sick.

Early HIV symptoms

People usually look and feel totally healthy for a long time after they’re infected. The onset of HIV symptoms may not occur until 10 years or more after infection, or even longer for those taking HIV medications. This highlights the importance of regular HIV testing, particularly for those who have engaged in unprotected sex or shared needles.. HIV treatment can help you stay healthy.

HIV treatment has the potential to decrease or even halt the transmission of the virus during sexual activity. In the initial 2-4 weeks following HIV infection, an individual may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, and malaise. These symptoms are the body’s initial response to the HIV infection. At this stage, the viral load is high, and the risk of transmitting HIV to others is significant. Although the symptoms typically dissipate after a few weeks, an individual can still transmit the virus, even if they don’t feel unwell, and this can continue for several years. Therefore, regardless of whether an individual is symptomatic, they can still spread HIV, emphasizing the importance of regular testing for those who engage in unprotected sex or shared needle use.

Later HIV/AIDS symptoms

The immune system cells known as CD4 cells or T cells are attacked and destroyed by HIV, which impairs the body’s ability to defend against illnesses. This makes you more likely to get really sick from infections that usually wouldn’t hurt you.

AIDS refers to a condition where an individual develops rare infections (known as opportunistic infections) or certain types of cancer, or experiences a significant drop in CD4 cells count. Typically, this occurs about a decade after contracting HIV if the person doesn’t receive treatment. However, with appropriate treatment, the onset of AIDS can be postponed or even avoided altogether.

The signs of AIDS include:

• Thrush (a thick, white coating on your tongue or mouth)
• Sore throat
• Bad yeast infections
• Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease
• Getting bad infections a lot
• Feeling really tired, dizzy, and lightheaded
• Headaches
• Losing lots of weight quickly
• Bruising more easily than normal
• Having diarrhea, fevers, or night sweats for a long time
• Swollen or firm glands in your throat, armpit, or groin
• Deep, dry coughing spells
• Feeling short of breath
• Purplish growths on your skin or inside your mouth
• Bleeding from the mouth, nose, anus, or vagina
• Skin rashes
• These symptoms include severe numbness in the hands or feet, loss of muscle control and reflexes, paralysis, and muscle weakness.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses, so it’s important not to jump to conclusions if you experience any of them. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested.

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV or are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with HIV. There are many treatment options available for people living with HIV, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can help suppress the virus and prevent its progression to AIDS. With proper treatment and care, people with HIV can lead long and healthy lives.

Accurex Biomedical

Accurex Biomedical Pvt. Ltd. is an Indian manufacturer and marketer which provides accurate and quality solutions in the diagnostic industry.

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