HIV/AIDS

Description

HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, making it harder to fight infections. If HIV is not controlled, it can progress to AIDS, the most advanced stage, where the immune system is severely damaged. People with HIV may not have symptoms right away, but they can still spread the virus to others. The virus is spread through certain activities, such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding. If you think you may have been exposed or want to learn more, talk with a qualified healthcare professional about testing and personalized guidance for your health.

Common Symptoms

1. Fever
2. Fatigue
3. Swollen lymph nodes
4. Sore throat
5. Night sweats
6. Rash
7. Weight loss
8. Diarrhea

If you’re experiencing symptoms or are concerned about HIV exposure, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for testing, evaluation, and guidance.

Causes

HIV is transmitted through exposure to certain body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, or breast milk) from an infected person.
The most common risk factors are unprotected sex with an HIV-positive or unknown-status partner and having multiple sexual partners.
Sharing needles or other injection equipment for drugs increases the risk of HIV transmission.
Mother-to-child transmission can occur during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding if the mother is HIV-positive.
If you're worried about your risk, consult a qualified healthcare professional for testing and prevention guidance.

Treatment Options

HIV/AIDS is commonly treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medicines from different classes that suppress the virus and support immune recovery.
The goal is to maintain an undetectable viral load to prevent disease progression and reduce transmission risk.
Ongoing care includes regular lab tests to monitor viral load, CD4 counts, organ function, and potential side effects or drug interactions.
Lifestyle and preventive measures—such as safe sex, avoiding sharing needles, healthy diet, exercise, sleep, and vaccination—are part of care.
Providers also manage opportunistic infections and comorbidities, and may offer prophylaxis or additional therapies as needed.
Adherence and regular follow-up are essential; treatment plans are individualized and should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.