HIV and Associated Complications

Overview

HIV is an autoimmune disorder that can cause life-threatening complications when undiagnosed and untreated. In addition, due to the nature of the viral disease, the immune system weakens, therefore increasing the risk of opportunistic infections.

HIV is an infectious viral disease that affects the CD4 cells, which can drop under 200 for each cubic millimetre. A cellular count under 200 is indicative of stage 3-HIV, which is a signal for the onset of AIDS.

 

Associated complications of HIV

  • An opportunistic infection
    An opportunistic infection like candidiasis is a fungal infection (thrush) that can be resolved by taking antifungal medication. Antifungal medication can be administered after a physical exam.
  • Coccidioidomycosis
    Coccidioidomycosis is a widespread fungal infection that can progress to pneumonia if not treated in time.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • Cryptococcosis is a fungal disease that reaches the lungs and spreads to the brain. Cryptococcal meningitis occurs when the infection spreads to the brain and can be life-threatening when neglected.
  • Cryptosporidiosis
    Cryptosporidiosis is a chronic condition that causes diarrhoea and severe abdominal cramping.
  • Histoplasmosis
    Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that can be resolved with antibiotics.
  • Toxoplasmosis
    Toxoplasmosis occurs due to a parasitic infection when the CD4 count drops below 200.
  • Tuberculosis
    Tuberculosis is a common infection in underdeveloped areas. The infection is particularly prevalent among people with HIV.
  • The HIV-related wasting syndrome
    The HIV-related wasting syndrome occurs when you lose over 10 per cent of your total body weight. The only way to treat the condition is to monitor your diet and continue taking antiretrovirals.
  • Lymphoma
    Lymphoma refers to cancer common among people with HIV. Treatment for lymphoma depends on the stage of cancer and its type.
  • Cervical cancer
    Cervical cancer develops from a mutation in the cervical cells. With HIV, the immune system is already weakened, which causes further complications as a result of cancer.
 

Treatment 

By taking antiretroviral medication and implementing healthy lifestyle changes, you can reduce the risk of an opportunistic infection. Medications for HIV have evolved for the better, increasing the lifespan of people living with HIV. With adequate care and regular check-ups, people living with HIV can enjoy living long, fulfilling and productive lifestyles.

FAQ

  1. How long are you able to live with HIV without knowing you are infected?
    In many cases, flu-like symptoms occur within two to six weeks after the infection.

  1. Are there different stages of HIV?
    There exist four primary stages of HIV: (1) A short bout of illness after the infection, (2) Asymptomatic HIV, (3) Symptomatic HIV, and (4) end-stage HIV.

  1. Do you need to take ARVs forever?
    ARVs should be taken diligently every day.