AIDS

Definition: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It is characterized by a severe weakening of the immune system, leaving individuals vulnerable to various opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Causes

HIV, which is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, is primarily responsible for causing AIDS. The virus attacks and destroys CD4 cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a vital role in fighting infections. As the immune system weakens, the risk of developing AIDS-related complications increases.

Symptoms

Early HIV infection often presents with flu-like symptoms, including fever, fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. As the disease progresses to AIDS, more severe symptoms such as weight loss, recurrent infections, chronic diarrhea, night sweats, and opportunistic infections may occur.

Diagnosis

HIV infection is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of HIV antibodies or the virus itself. A diagnosis of AIDS is made when the individual’s CD4 cell count drops below a certain level or if they develop certain opportunistic infections or cancers associated with advanced HIV disease.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) is highly effective in controlling the virus, slowing disease progression, and improving the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. ART involves a combination of medications that interfere with the replication of the virus, allowing the immune system to recover and function better.

Prevention

Preventing the transmission of HIV is crucial in preventing AIDS. This can be achieved through various measures, such as practicing safe sex (using condoms), avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, and ensuring that healthcare settings adhere to proper infection control procedures. Additionally, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) medications are available for individuals at high risk of contracting HIV.