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Human Immunodeficiency (HIV) is a significant global health concern. As an individual, you must understand HIV thoroughly, including its causes, symptoms, and preventive measures. It may help us as a community to combat its spread effectively.
If you are experiencing any unusual health symptoms, like rapid weight loss, you can visit the best pathology lab today. It is essential to know your health status and follow doctor-recommended preventive measures if required. This way, you can minimize health risks and enjoy a healthy life.
In this article, you will delve into the intricacies of HIV, shedding light on the virus, transmission, the symptoms, and essential steps one can take to prevent it.
What Is HIV
HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency, is a virus that adversely attacks the immune system, particularly targeting CD4 cells (a type of white blood cells). These cells assist the immune system in warding off infections. If HIV is left untreated, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) can be developed. AIDS is a condition in which the immune system becomes severely damaged, leaving your body vulnerable to potential infections and cancer.
Causes of HIV
HIV is transmitted through the exchange of certain body fluids. Some of the common causes include:-
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Unprotected Sexual Contact
You must note that sexual intercourse with an infected person is one of the common causes of HIV transmission. So, it is advisable to use protection and consider the sexual history of your partner before indulging in any physical contact.
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Sharing Needles & Syringes
If healthcare providers or individuals use or share needles or syringes contaminated with infected blood, you may suffer from HIV. It is highly common among intravenous drug users.
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Mother-to-Child Transmission
If a mother is infected, it can be passed to her little one during childbirth or breastfeeding. Thus, it is advisable to receive proper prenatal and postnatal care for the effective health of both baby and mother.
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Blood Transfusions & Organ Transplants
It is rare these days due to rigorous testing and following safety measures. However, there is a possibility of HIV transmission through blood transfusions or organ transplants from the infected donor.
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Occupational Exposure
Healthcare providers may come into contact with HIV-infected blood. They are at a risk of infection through accidental needlesticks.
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Sharing of Sharp Instruments
If you share sharp instruments, like razors, that may be contaminated with infected blood, there is a possibility of HIV transmission.
Symptoms of HIV
The progression of HIV transmission progressed through distinct stages, each having its own set of symptoms. You must note that symptoms of HIV may vary from one person to another. In some cases, HIV remains asymptomatic for years. It makes it vital for you to get yourself thoroughly tested at the best diagnostic lab in India.
With frequent body health checkups, you can stay updated on your health status and enjoy a healthy life. The stages and symptoms of these HIV infections include:-
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Acute HIV Infection
After the first few weeks of exposure to HIV, the acute stage is developed. It includes flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, rash, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
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Clinical Latency
In this stage, the virus is multiplied at lower levels. Many people remain asymptomatic during this stage, and it can last for years.
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Early Symptomatic HIV Infection
As the virus continues to multiply and damage your immune system, you may experience symptoms, including weight loss, and fever.
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AIDS
If not treated timely, HIV can progress to AIDS. At this stage, you are vulnerable to a wide range of infections and certain types of cancers. You may struggle with many symptoms, such as rapid weight loss, frequent infections, etc.
So, if you experience any of these symptoms, mild or severe, you can visit the best pathology lab today. With timely medical intervention, you can stay healthy and active.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Healthcare providers do physical examinations and a series of HIV-related medical tests to evaluate your health risks precisely. Using modern technology, doctors diagnose you thoroughly to devise an effective treatment plan tailored to your healthcare needs. Some of the diagnostic tests for HIV include:-
- HIV Viral Load: It is a type of blood test that monitors the disease condition and the effectiveness of the treatment.
- HIV 1 & 2 Antibodies, Rapid: The antibodies tests look for HIV infection in your blood. If you indulge in unprotected sex, injected drug use, or direct contact with an infected person’s blood.
- CD4/CD8, Flow Cytometry: CD4 and CD8 are T cell subtypes (types of blood cells). With the test, doctors can monitor your immune system and the progression of HIV among patients.
Bottom Line
If you are struggling with any health-related discomfort, you can look for the best pathology lab today. You must note that some diseases, like HIV, can be asymptomatic for some time in the initial stages. Thus, it is vital to get precisely checked at the best diagnostic lab in India.
So, stay safe and receive prompt medical attention at the earliest.
