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Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, particularly CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. Without treatment, HIV can lead to the disease AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). HIV remains a significant global health issue, affecting millions of people worldwide.
HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal and rectal fluids, and breast milk. The most common ways to contract HIV are through unprotected sex, sharing needles or syringes, from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding, and less commonly, through transfusions of infected blood.
- Fever - Chills - Rash - Night sweats - Muscle aches - Sore throat - Fatigue - Swollen lymph nodes - Mouth ulcers During the initial infection, individuals may experience a flu-like illness within 2 to 4 weeks, which can last for a few weeks. After this stage, HIV may not cause any symptoms for years, but it continues to damage the immune system.
Diagnosis of HIV is primarily through blood tests. The most common tests detect the antibodies and antigens in the blood. Early detection is crucial, so if you believe you have been exposed to the virus, it's important to get tested immediately. Following an initial positive result, further tests will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
Preventing HIV involves practicing safe sex, using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at high risk, avoiding the sharing of needles, and using treatment as prevention (TasP) for those living with HIV to reduce the viral load to undetectable levels. Although there is no cure for HIV, natural treatment options aim to boost the immune system and manage symptoms. Functional medicine focuses on a holistic approach including: - Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. - Exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy immune system. - Supplements: Certain supplements, such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium, have shown some promise in supporting immune health in HIV patients. - Herbal remedies: Some herbs, such as echinacea and garlic, have been explored for their potential immune-boosting properties. - Stress management: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress, which is important in managing HIV. It's vital for individuals with HIV to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their health and adjust treatments as necessary. Functional medicine can complement traditional antiretroviral therapy (ART), not replace it. ART is the cornerstone of HIV treatment and involves taking a combination of medicines daily to significantly reduce the viral load in the body, improve quality of life, and extend life expectancy.