Tuesday, August 30, 2011

AIDS Wasting Syndrome: A Brief OverviewA

AIDS Wasting Syndrome: A Brief Overview

As mentioned earlier, AIDS affects the immune system of the body, making the person susceptible to innumerable infections and diseases. The AIDS wasting syndrome definition can be stated as, 'The involuntary loss of body weight by more than 10 percent, including more than 30 days of diarrhea, weakness or fever caused by HIV infection.' Hence AIDS wasting syndrome is an indication that the HIV infection has progressed into the incurable immune system disease - AIDS, where the condition cannot be reversed. In the AIDS or HIV wasting syndrome, the affected person suffers greatly as the body system begins to degenerate. The body loses approximately 10 percent of its muscle and fat mass, making the person leaner than normal. This muscle loss is involuntary and the person has no control over this physical degeneration.

AIDS wasting syndrome can be caused due to a number of factors like the body's inability to absorb the essential nutrients, increase in the metabolic rate, loss of appetite, depression and sometimes it can also be a result of the side effects of certain medications. Some other causes for this debilitating condition are eruption of sores in the mouth, esophageal ulcers, fluctuating hormonal levels. Opportunistic infections, which may occur due to the presence of pathogens like virus, fungal growth and bacteria in the body, can attack the body due to a weakened immune system.

AIDS Wasting Syndrome

AIDS Wasting Syndrome

AIDS wasting syndrome is a condition where the body begins to lose its muscle mass at a rapid pace. Through this article we will discuss about this AIDS wasting syndrome and what happens during this condition...
AIDS Wasting Syndrome
There are many infections and diseases that have affected the human race and taken a toll. Some of these diseases are treatable, for some there is ongoing research to find a way to cure them and also some others where there is no treatment as yet and an early death is inevitable. One such lethal disease is AIDS, the acronym for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. This is one of the deadliest diseases ever known to man and affects the entire human body system. The main causative factor for this disease is the presence of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) in the body. This virus attacks the most vital system of the body - the immune system and plays havoc in the entire body. This virus enters the body through various means like sexual intercourse with an infected person, sharing the same needle (this practice is usually seen among drug addicts) and from an infected mother to her child. Once the virus enters the body, it remains dormant for about a couple of years after which it begins its task of affecting the person, slowly eating away his health. Let us now discuss about the AIDS wasting syndrome.

the biology of an AIDS patient.

The occurrence of other sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, HPV infection and chlamydia may also indicate towards HIV transmission as sexual fluids are one of the favorite vehicles of transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus. HIV/AIDS symptoms in men and women differ along certain points such as the occurrence or absence of various conditions that are gender specific such as abnormal menstrual cycles, gynecological problems etc. The onset of AIDS as a sign of advanced HIV infection may manifest as the severe onset of an otherwise trivial opportunistic infection. Such a trivial infection may take a life threatening form when it enters the biology of an AIDS patient. Such symptoms could include:-
  • Constant coughing
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Weakening or loss of vision
  • Mental confusions and delirium
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Seizures
  • Distorted coordination
  • Coma
That precisely sums up AIDS symptoms in women. Nowadays, individuals infected with HIV have access to a lot of advanced medical and health care options and an identification of early symptoms of HIV helps a lot in lessening the sufferings of such persons. The best way to keep AIDS and HIV at an arm's distance and to be able to cope with it is to be aware of all HIV facts and follow medical hygiene and safe sex practices. The quest for an AIDS vaccine is on its way and we hope, for the sake of those millions of infected individuals, that it is developed soon so that the gift of a healthy and happy life can be shared by a larger number of people around the world.

HIV Symptoms in women

HIV Symptoms in women

Before proceeding towards discussing HIV symptoms in women, let's first understand the difference between HIV and AIDS. Most of the times, these two terms are confused with each other. HIV is the viral pathogen that is responsible for the immunodeficiency syndrome whereas AIDS is a very advanced stage of HIV infection. Now, let's take a look at some of the common and early HIV symptoms in women. They are as follows:-
  • Severe or recurrent vaginal infections
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Abnormal menstrual bleeding
  • Frequent colds and fevers
  • Recurrent headaches with no previous history or no apparent reason
  • Swelling of lymph glands located in the groin, neck and armpits
  • Constant soreness in throat
  • Frequent or severe skin rashes and infections
  • Night sweats
  • Loss of appetite
  • Frequent cases of indigestion and diarrhea
  • Sudden spurt in various gynecological problems
  • Constant pain in muscles and joints
  • Genital warts, genital herpes and ulcers
  • Lipodystrophy
  • Nausea and vomitting
  • Unexplained weight loss, indicative of HIV wasting syndrome
  • Constant fatigue
  • Abnormal Pap smears
  • Complicated pelvic conditions such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
  • Frequent yeast infections in the vagina or mouth
  • Mucosal herpes infection
  • Other visible AIDS symptoms (rash, white spots on skin, weird marks inside the mouth, etc.)

AIDS symptoms in women and men may

AIDS symptoms in women and men may differ in certain aspects but the big picture remains the same. This disease spreads its malevolent clutches over our system by gradually weakening the immune system to such a point where the latter is unable to offer any kind of resistance to tumors and opportunistic infections such as staph infections, Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus infections, etc.

When the immune system gets compromised, such a condition is known as immunodeficiency and this condition afflicts or entirely robs the immune system of its ability to combat infections and infectious diseases. What can be a common cold or flu for a normal person which goes away in a couple of days can prove fatal to a person who has fallen victim to AIDS. Therefore, it can be concluded that AIDS is not a disease by itself – rather, it creates windows in the barrier of immunity to let other diseases in. Let's proceed towards taking a closer look at HIV/AIDS symptoms in women in accordance with the subject of this article.

A IDS Symptoms in Women

AIDS Symptoms in Women

AIDS kills - it's as simple as that. As far as mortality is concerned, AIDS does not discriminate between the sexes. However, AIDS symptoms in women may differ considerably from those in men. Let's find out more on this.
AIDS Symptoms in Women
No war on the face of the Earth is more destructive than the AIDS pandemic.
~ Colin Powell

By this time, we are all well aware, or at least have some idea, of what AIDS and HIV are. Short for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, AIDS is one of the deadliest immune system diseases which is caused by the infiltration of our biological system by the deadly Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

diagnosing HIV infection

Further in 1985, a blood test was formulated which helped in identifying if a person was carrying HIV. Since 1985, this blood test is used effectively for diagnosing HIV infection. Some more tests were also found to help in diagnosing the virus and the disease using the saliva and urine.

During first few years of the detection of the new disease AIDS, all the possible reasons of spread of the disease were unknown. This helped the disease spread from one infected person to another. Back in the decade of 60's, there were very rare chances of a disease spreading across continents or countries. It was possible only when one person traveled from one country to another and carried the disease knowingly or unknowingly. The spread of AIDS is also said to be related with the same situation. It is said that when flight attendants used to fly across the seas, they had many sex partners in almost all the countries they visited. This helped AIDS spread from Africa and allowed it to enter in America.

After few years, all the possible reasons which helps AIDS virus to spread from one person to another were revealed, such as blood transfusion from an infected person to a healthy person, sexual intercourse between infected person and a healthy person, use of syringe etc. Right from the time of outbreak of the virus, it has infected over 50 million people and killed about half of the same till today (The number of people infected and killed due to AIDS might change, as there is a huge difference in official and unofficial data). But the right cure for the virus has not yet been discovered.

It is believed that the HIV

It is believed that the HIV virus inherits its properties from a virus SIV (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus), which is found in monkeys. The AIDS virus also has developed its own characteristics along with those which it inherits from SIV. The SIV virus has exactly same genetic structure as that of HIV and both the viruses are transmitted same way from one host to another. The SIV virus causes AIDS in monkeys and has exactly same effects on them but it does not show any such effect on humans, whereas HIV causes AIDS in humans but not in monkeys. There are again many interesting stories/guesses/hypothesis as how the HIV virus born from the SIV virus? And how SIV virus got mixed in the human blood?

The AIDS virus was first discovered around year 1980 in the United States. A group of young gay men and also some drug users; were getting ill often, and there was no trace of the disease that they were suffering from. Most of the diseases they were falling prey of were related to the immune system. As it was not known that how much time the disease takes to surface? And how the disease spreads? The virus of AIDS found new home for itself from one man to another in the same group and also those who came in sexual contact or used the same syringe which was used by infected person. After some months, people from the group began to die, the diseases which killed all those people, were some of the common diseases which affects human at much extent if they have a damaged immune system. The T cells, also known as CD4 cells which help human body in fighting with the diseases were found damaged and there level was lowered in the patients suffering from the mysterious disease. It was outbreak of the new disease and it was identified and named AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) in 1981. Doctors started research in order to find out the possible causes of the disease. First, it was not known whether AIDS was caused by viral infection or something else until two doctors Luc Montagnier and Robert Gallo found the virus causing AIDS. The virus was named Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Monday, August 29, 2011

AIDS - Where Did AIDS Come From

AIDS - Where Did AIDS Come From?

AIDS is an acronym for the disease called Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. More than 24 million people have lost their lives after falling prey to AIDS over last two decades (Please note that the number of deaths caused due to the disease might change). The disease has become most notorious of all the diseases and is spreading very fast among the people all over the world.
Although there are many stories/guesses of how and from where the disease originated? HIV virus is strongly believed to be originated from Africa around 1940. According to stored records, the first known patient of AIDS disease was from one of the states of Africa in 1959 whose blood was stored in order to find out the possible cause of his death. In tests carried out, the blood is confirmed to contain AIDS virus.

employees who are HIV-positive.

Attorney Andrew Hanley of Wilmington, NC, who represented the restaurant, said that the owners felt they had done the right thing by firing Pelela, and they thought they had a strong defense. But they could not afford to fight Lambda Legal in federal court, so they were forced to settle with Pelela out of court for an undisclosed amount of money. "It’s just one of those issues," Hanely said, "Where if you’re a mom-and-pop business, it’s hard to fight these national interest groups." In addition, the restaurant had to promise that it will conduct training sessions about how HIV is transmitted, and will ensure that it does not discriminate against employees who are HIV-positive.

"There is no risk of transmission of HIV through the preparation of food, yet myths about transmission are clearly running rampant," said Greg Nevins, senior staff attorney in Lambda Legal's Southern Regional Office in Atlanta. "We are happy to see the owners of this restaurant instituting a policy based on the facts and training their employees on the truth about HIV transmission."

The website of the Centers for Disease Control says people can be infected with HIV if "infected blood gets into a worker’s open cut or a mucous membrane (for example, the eyes or inside of the nose)." The site also says that "CDC has investigated only one case of HIV infection that may be attributed to contact with blood during open-mouth kissing." So evidently there has been at least one person who contracted HIV after HIV-positive blood made contact with their mouth. Since a prep chef might knick his finger without knowing it, and the salad he just prepared might be eaten by a patron who doesn’t know there could be a drop of HIV-positive blood in it, the restaurant’s decision to fire Pelela seems overwhelmingly reasonable. What doesn’t seem reasonable is for the owners of a small restaurant to have to pay him a large sum of money just because they were trying to protect their customers.

NC Restaurant Settles Suit with HIV-Positive Cook

NC Restaurant Settles Suit with HIV-Positive Cook

A former cook at a locally owned restaurant in Wrightsville Beach was fired when the owners learned he was HIV-positive, and the restaurant was forced to settle with the cook in order to avoid a costly court battle.
NC Restaurant Settles Suit with HIV-Positive Cook
Aron Pelela, 31, worked as a prep chef at The Causeway CafĂ© in Wrightsville Beach. But when the restaurant’s owners learned that Pelela was HIV-positive, they were worried about their liability and the potential risk to their customers. A local health ordinance prohibits someone with a contagious disease from working in the food industry, and HIV is a contagious disease, so the restaurant’s owners contacted the local health department for advice.

The health department would not give them clearance to employ Pelela, but they also refused to give them a statement saying it was not a violation to employ him. The restaurant’s owners felt they had no choice but to let him go, so Pelela was fired in October 2005. Attorney Joyce L. Davis of Raleigh, NC, then enlisted the help of Lambda Legal to sue the restaurant under the Americans With Disabilities Act. Lambda Legal is a national legal organization that sues businesses for perceived civil rights infringements, on behalf of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people, and people who are HIV-positive.

HIV patient advocates

The announcement by the CDC was applauded by health policy experts and HIV patient advocates, who say that the guidelines may help end the stigma of HIV testing if everyone is having it performed. Routine testing may result in care being sought by the estimated 250,000 Americans who are infected with the disease and don’t know it.

Many physicians feel that the recommendations will be challenging to implement and will probably be costly due to increased time for testing, counseling, and the revision of consent procedures currently being used. Some question whether enough evidence exists to justify testing for HIV beyond high-risk groups. But the American Medical Association endorses the recommendations and has urged doctors to comply with them. The AMA’s statement about the guidelines said that they are an "important public health strategy to stop the spread of HIV."

CDC officials have been working on the recommendations for about three years and received input and feedback from more than 100 organizations including HIV patient advocacy groups and various medical associations. The final retooling of the guidelines strengthened the language about informed consent to ensure that no one will be tested without their knowledge.

CDC officials say that almost half of all new HIV

CDC officials say that almost half of all new HIV infections are discovered by doctors when they are trying to diagnose the cause of a patient’s illness. Dr. Timothy Mastro, acting director of the CDC’s division of HIV/AIDS prevention, told reporters that the new guidelines are vital to facing the HIV/AIDS crisis head-on. "We know that many HIV infected people seek health care and they don’t get tested," Mastro said. "And many people are not diagnosed until late in the course of their illness, when they’re already sick with HIV-related conditions. By identifying people earlier through a screening program, we’ll allow them to access life-extending therapy, and also through prevention services, learn how to avoid transmitting HIV infection to others."

The CDC has previously recommended routine testing for people who are at high risk for catching HIV/AIDS, including drug users and gay men, and has recommended routine testing in hospitals and certain other institutions in areas where HIV is common. The CDC also recommends routine testing for all pregnant women. Under the new guidelines, patients would be tested for HIV during routine physicals, and also as part of the standard battery of tests all patients receive when being treated for emergency or urgent care.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Government Wants Routine HIV Testing for Americans

Government Wants Routine HIV Testing for Americans

The Centers for Disease Control says that all Americans should be checked routinely for HIV as often as any other blood test.
Government Wants Routine HIV Testing for Americans
Federal health recommendations announced Thursday say that all Americans between the ages of 13 and 64 should be tested regularly for HIV, and the testing should become as common as a cholesterol level check. Doing so would help doctors catch HIV infections earlier, and hopefully stop or at least slow the spread of the deadly virus. The federal recommendations aren’t legally binding—yet—but they will influence what doctors do and suggest to patients, and they will probably affect what health insurance programs cover.

Major AIDS and HIV Research Breakthrough

Major AIDS and HIV Research Breakthrough

British and US scientists working in London have confirmed that they have taken a major step forward in developing better treatments for HIV and AIDS patients.
The problem with much of the medicine behind the progress that has been made in the global fight against HIV and AIDS is that doctors and scientists are often unclear as to how the effective drugs actually work in slowing the spread of the virus or its potency. That changed very recently when scientists were able to successfully grow a crystal that models exactly the important HIV enzyme integrase, which is common among many of the retroviruses that are similar to HIV. By creating a crystal of integrase, scientists for the first time are able to view the entire structure of the enzyme at every angle. As a result, it’s now possible to determine exactly how specific medicines interact with the enzyme and those processes can now be pinpointed and ultimately improved upon.

The hope here isn’t necessarily that a cure for AIDS or HIV is around the corner, but by understanding exactly how certain medications interact with this key enzyme, it may be possible for researchers to make great strides in determining better medicines and better treatment methodologies for the disease.

Some of the more effective AIDS treatment drugs have already been tested on the crystal model and doctors could see for the first time exactly how the drugs bonded to integrase and how they managed to block its functions. The road to achieving this scientific success was a long and difficult one. Over 40,000 attempts at growing a sufficient crystal failed before the recent success was achieved.

Saturday, August 27, 2011

HIV AIDS in Men

HIV AIDS in Men
It may actually take years before HIV virus develops in to AIDS. Till that time a man may not show any symptom of contraction of virus. However, there are a few early HIV symptoms in men that can serve as an indication that you may have AIDS.
  • Men suffering from HIV will have moderate or mild fever. This fever will be accompanied by a headache.
  • Another common symptom of HIV is swollen glands. These include any of the lymph glands in the body.
  • A man suffering from HIV will notice a rash on his body. This can also be a red patch which causes inflammation. Scroll through an article on HIV rash symptoms to gain a better idea.
  • An advanced sign of HIV in men is diarrhea and loss of weight.
So these were some of the signs and symptoms of HIV in men, women and children. Make sure you always follow a balanced diet for a healthy living. Don't forget to get a routine check up done every 6 months.

HIV in Children

Early Signs and Symptoms of HIV in Women
Symptoms of HIV in women are slightly different from men. Early symptoms of HIV in women can be a change in skin, feeling of fatigue and drastic weight loss. HIV symptoms also depend on the immune system of a woman. Some typical symptoms are loss of appetite, persistent headache, sweating at night and a constant urge to go to the rest room. Woman having physical contacts without protection are on a greater risk of getting HIV infected. A woman suffering from genital herpes is easily susceptible to contracting aids. Women who are suffering from all venereal diseases that cannot be cured, have a greater chance of suffering from AIDS. Women who have sexual relations with multiple partners are often at risk of getting infected by HIV virus.

HIV in Children
Children who have HIV often suffer from different symptoms than adults. HIV symptoms in children differ from adults simply because adults have healthy immune system and immune system of children is still in developing stages.
  • Children affected with HIV lose weight very quickly and find it very hard to gain weight again. This drastic weight loss also comes with various illnesses.
  • HIV positive children often suffer from abnormal growth. This happens because a large part of your body's energy is focused on fighting HIV virus which minimizes the scope of growth of normal development.
  • HIV positive children are a little slower with mental tasks and may also suffer from difficulties in walking, talking and doing some physical tasks.
  • Like adults children also are at a risk of developing opportunistic functions if they have HIV.

Early Signs and Symptoms of HIV Infection

Early Signs and Symptoms of HIV Infection
Signs and symptoms of HIV differ from person to person. While some may show immediate symptoms, others may take time. Usually, early HIV symptoms may be common cold or cough or in some cases mild fever. If HIV symptoms are detected early, an effective diagnosis is possible.
  • Depression is one of the most common symptom of HIV. We all have our days when we feel low, but sometimes the phase of depression lasts for a few weeks. It's better to get your routine check up done.
  • We all have stale, pasty and bad tasting coat in your mouth when you get up. It's called a thrush. Normally, it goes off with one good brushing session. People with HIV infection have a regular occurrence of this coat even after brushing their teeth.
  • Drastic weight loss is a common early symptom of HIV infection. If suddenly you see yourself losing pounds for no apparent reason, then it's better to have a blood test done.
  • Your eyes suffer from constant pressure which makes it hard for you to concentrate. You always have an exploding feeling in your head. A sinus infection is also a common symptom of HIV.

Signs and Symptoms of HIV

Signs and Symptoms of HIV

Signs and symptoms of HIV are slightly different in men and women. This article will give you insights about one of the most deadliest diseases on the planet earth.
Signs and Symptoms of HIV
AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome) is a dreaded Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) which is caused by a virus HIV (Human Immuno Deficiency Virus). The main reason for the cause of aids is unprotected sex or having multiple partners. In many cases, AIDS has also been spread through blood transfusions and with the use of infected needles. Last but not the least, HIV virus is also one of the prime causes of the spread of AIDS in humans. When the virus enters the human body it weakens the immune system, but signs and symptoms of HIV are not visible in the initial stages, as they are very mild in nature

HIV Symptoms in Men after 6 Months: Facts to Know

HIV Symptoms in Men after 6 Months: Facts to Know
To understand the progression of HIV symptoms in men, we've got to analyze symptoms in the first few months (2 -3 months) and then the later months (after 5 - 6 months). Studies and medical reports have suggested that before six months, only those HIV infections show presence that are acute or severe. Acute HIV infections shows symptoms within two - three weeks after the virus has infected and it lasts for around 30 days. After 1 month, the symptoms may subside with minor occurrences often. Hence, after 6 months of the infection, there are no HIV symptoms in men. However, meanwhile, in the initial months of infection, the body immune system has already launched its first fight against AIDS and hence production of antibodies in the blood is carried out.

HIV seroconversion illness is a medical condition symptoms of which AIDS patients experience after the body starts producing antigens to fight HIV virus. Seroconversion symptoms last for nearly 30 days. This usually occurs in the starting months of HIV infection when HIV/AIDS - early symptoms of HIV infection start surfacing. Some of the most common symptoms in the first few months of infection (if the virus has infected) are sore throat, digestive problems, tiredness, rashes on skin, aches, pains and swollen lymph nodes. Once seroconversion symptoms are over after an month (or few weeks), AIDS disease advances into its most complex and longest stage - the asymptomatic stage, that is said to last for an average 10 years. During these years, there will be no prominent symptoms of HIV/AIDS. One of the dangerous facts about AIDS is that although, during asymptomatic stage, there will be no symptoms, the virus can still be transferred from the infected person.

Early diagnosis a key for improving the life of an AIDS patient. Diagnosis of AIDS symptoms in men after 6 months is fair however, one has to put extra efforts for preventing the aggravation of AIDS disease, in case it is detected after 6 months. Hence, the earlier AIDS is diagnosed, the better it is. In case, HIV symptoms in men after 6 months are observed then seeking medical testing and treatment is without doubt crucial. Remember, the earlier the treatment is started, lesser is the risk of further complications.

Friday, August 26, 2011

HIV Symptoms in Men After 6 Months


HIV Symptoms in Men After 6 Months

As per various medical science reports, HIV symptoms in men after 6 months of HIV infection may advance in what is called as later or acute stages of HIV infection. Nevertheless, this result can vary for different cases. Generalized information on HIV symptoms in men after 6 months forms the subject matter of this article.
HIV Symptoms in Men After 6 Months
As per WHO's global summary report compiled in December 2008, there are nearly 33 million people all across the globe who have been living with HIV. Every year, nearly 2.7 million people get infected by this virus and around 2 million die due to this global pandemic. HIV/AIDS poses one of the greatest threats to human health. Difficulty in diagnosing and treating AIDS and late occurrence of HIV symptoms makes AIDS one of the most critical medical conditions that has ever plagued the human species.

In fact, before AIDS disease develops in an individual, there is a period of time, the HIV virus lies dormant in the body and so even an infected person is unable to understand if he/she is carrying this virus. In several cases, people experience symptoms of AIDS as soon as they become infected. On the contrary, in majority of other cases, it takes years for the AIDS to develop. Owing to complexity of AIDS, it's difficult to predict any definite results.

Usually, HIV symptoms in men after 6 months are said to be asymptomatic. After 6 months of the infection, an infected person may not experience any symptoms. However, in the first few months of infection (before 6 months), minor HIV/AIDS symptoms do appear. Early HIV symptoms in men may include, but not restricted to these are; extreme physical exhaustion, bruising, too much unexplained body rashes and flu like symptoms.

Does the HIV Rash Itch?

Does the HIV Rash Itch?

Well, a straightforward answer to your question 'Is HIV rash itchy?', is 'Yes, it is!' Now that you have gotten your answer for 'Is HIV rash itchy?', why not know some other important facts about the HIV rash symptoms. This rash has a centralized location and it appears in the form of raised bumps or blotches. These bumps may be small and dark and may appear on multiple parts of the affected person, common being areas on the face, torso, hands, feet and genitals. People with a dark complexion may have the rash as dark purple or black, while fair people may notice the rash as red or brown. Apart from being itchy, the rash may be tender and sore too. It is important to know that this rash does not occur for all HIV patients and there are some patients who may have a similar rash despite of not being affected by the HIV. Know everything about HIV/AIDS in this article on facts about AIDS.

What must be mentioned in this article titled 'Is HIV rash itchy', is the significance of this symptom. It is after the appearance of this rash that the affected person is more likely to be diagnosed with a positive case of HIV. Also, the appearance of the rash indicates the fact that the disease has progressed to its second stage out of the four.

Let's conclude this data on 'Do HIV rash itch?', by some precautions to prevent the spread of HIV. Needless to stress on the unfortunate fact that medical science has not been able to come up with any cure for the HIV infection till now. So, solution lies in the prevention itself. Do not ignore the importance of using condoms to curb the spread of the disease to others or from others to you. While using syringes, ensure that the instrument is sterile and never err to share it with someone else.

And as a final note to this article on 'Is HIV rash itchy?', expecting mothers must always go for a HIV check up as early as possible. Even if the mother is HIV positive, her baby can be kept safe from contracting the disease by early medical intervention.

Is HIV Rash Itchy

Is HIV Rash Itchy

Is HIV rash itchy? Is that what you are looking for all this time? Well, you have asked the question and I am here with the answer. Scroll down...
Is HIV Rash Itchy
Before I give you the answer for 'Is HIV rash itchy?', let's quickly go through this. HIV is the short for (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). It is the virus that is responsible for causing the world's most deadliest and incurable disease AIDS. This virus lays attack on the immune system of the body and makes it weak to such an extent that it loses the ability to fight with the smallest of pathogens. A person who has been infected by this virus can even die due to a simple common cold as his immune system ceases to function completely. An HIV infection may take several years before it transforms into AIDS. Basically, the virus destroys the CD4 cells which are a type of while blood cells, playing a vital role in the body to fight against disease. So, over time, the HIV keeps on destroying these cells and when the count comes down to below 200, it is then when a person is said to be diagnosed with AIDS.

The HIV rash is one of the symptoms which occur around three weeks after the virus has infected a person. Apart from the rash other symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat and swollen lymph glands. Later HIV symptoms infection may show up in the form of diarrhea, weight loss, fever, cough, breathing difficulty and swollen lymph nodes. Before I forget, the following section gives you the answer to the question 'Is HIV rash itchy?'.

Early Symptoms of HIV Rash

Early Symptoms of HIV Rash

HIV rash is one of the later symptoms of HIV. The HIV rash is flaky and severe. Warts on feet and hands, sores around the genital areas, hives and itchy skin, folliculitis, acne and pimples are some of the examples of HIV rash. Hives are also a form of HIV rashes. If a person is already diagnosed with HIV infection and is under treatment, then the HIV rash can be a side effect of the medications. However, this rash is dangerous as there are chances of this rash converting into life threatening skin disorders leading to death. Skin cancers, impetigo and such severe skin infections are also caused due to the medications.

As you can see from above the early symptoms of HIV are similar to any flu symptoms. They come and go after a few weeks. Depression and drastic weight loss are the common signs and symptoms of HIV. The immune system of the person goes for a toss. Many times it takes almost 9 years for a person to realize that he/she is suffering from HIV. This is when the infections has increased and is at the next stage - AIDS. Though there are no cures for HIV and AIDS, if HIV infection is detected at an early stage, AIDS can be pushed forward by about 5 or more years with the help of proper medication.

Early Symptoms of HIV in Women

Early Symptoms of HIV in Women
  • Abdominal fat distribution is one of the early symptoms of HIV in women.
  • Breast enlargement and frequent headaches with no necessary causes are the other common early HIV symptoms in women.
  • Women may suffer from pelvic inflammatory diseases and from frequent abdominal problems too.
  • Women are easily fatigued and more susceptible to genital ulcers.
  • Frequent abdominal problems and gynecological problems like severe vaginal problems are the other early symptoms of HIV.
  • Finally, physical and psychological problems start increasing as the infection increases.
Early Symptoms of HIV in Men
  • Fever, headache, tiredness and nausea are few of the early symptoms of HIV.
  • Men also suffer from large lymphs in the neck, groin or in their armpits.
  • Men experience rapid weight loss, pneumonia and diarrhea for over a week too.
  • Memory loss, depression and unexplained fatigue for a long period of time are the acute HIV symptoms in men.
  • The HIV symptoms in men after 6 months are white spots in the mouth, recurring fever and neurological disorders.

HIV causes AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

HIV causes AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. This is the advanced stage of HIV. In this stage, the person suffering from AIDS is openly susceptible to dangerous diseases and eventually loses his/her life. HIV AIDS is spread through the exchange of bodily fluids like blood, vaginal fluids, semen, breast milk. If a person suffering from HIV has unprotected sex with another person, he/she will pass on the disease, i.e., it is a sexually transmitted disease. A mother can transfer this disease to her baby during pregnancy and while breast feeding. People may contact HIV by blood transfusions. Using the same injection needle is also another way to pass HIV from one person to another. Unfortunately, this has become an epidemic with millions of people succumbing to this disease every year. If the people understand the symptoms, they might prevent the disease from spreading. The below mentioned paragraphs will concentrate on the early symptoms of HIV.

Early Symptoms of HIV Infection

Early Symptoms of HIV Infection

Once a person is infected by this virus, the symptoms start showing after 6 weeks to 12 weeks. Fever, rash, swollen lymph glands and muscle aches are the early symptoms of HIV infection. As you can see all of these are flu like symptoms, so they are usually ignored. Unless the person gets HIV specific tests done, after showing these symptoms, he/she may not know that they are suffering from HIV. When the infection starts growing, the person starts suffering from diseases which he/she would normally not suffer from. Weakening of the immune system is an HIV fact. There is no medicine to completely cure HIV or AIDS. However, if HIV is treated when the person shows the early symptoms of HIV, then the time taken to progress towards AIDS is reduced. Normally, it takes 8 to 10 years for the person to go from HIV infection to AIDS. The medications increase this time to up to 15 years or, in some cases, more than 15 years. Long lasting headaches, repeated yeast infections, enlarged spleen or liver are all early symptoms of HIV AIDS. Some of the acute HIV symptoms are mouth ulcers, skin rash and oral thrush.

HIV causes AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

HIV causes AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. This is the advanced stage of HIV. In this stage, the person suffering from AIDS is openly susceptible to dangerous diseases and eventually loses his/her life. HIV AIDS is spread through the exchange of bodily fluids like blood, vaginal fluids, semen, breast milk. If a person suffering from HIV has unprotected sex with another person, he/she will pass on the disease, i.e., it is a sexually transmitted disease. A mother can transfer this disease to her baby during pregnancy and while breast feeding. People may contact HIV by blood transfusions. Using the same injection needle is also another way to pass HIV from one person to another. Unfortunately, this has become an epidemic with millions of people succumbing to this disease every year. If the people understand the symptoms, they might prevent the disease from spreading. The below mentioned paragraphs will concentrate on the early symptoms of HIV.

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

.HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a medical condition where the HIV attacks the cells in our body that fight with the infections. These cells are known as the T cells or CD4 cells and are responsible to fight against the micro organisms that cause cancers and other infections. Once this virus is inside the body, it starts killing the T cells and start multiplying finally coming to a stage when the body loses all its power to fight against the diseases. In other words, the immunity system of the body totally collapses. This virus, though similar to the flu virus, is a thousand times more harmful as over a period of time our body flushes out most of the viruses from it but for some reason cannot get rid of this virus. Experts are at a loss to know why is this the case. Furthermore, 1 in every 5 who suffer from HIV, does not know that he/she is suffering from it. This brings us to the HIV symptoms. This article centers around the early symptoms of HIV.

When do First Symptoms of HIV Appear

When do First Symptoms of HIV Appear

The first symptoms of HIV can be noticed as early as 2 weeks from the time contracting the infection. This is the time when you will show flu-like symptoms. It can be the stage where you may misinterpret it by considering it to be common cold or other common illnesses. These symptoms may last for a few weeks or few months after which these symptoms will stop. If you suspect it to be HIV infection or otherwise too, it is highly recommended to do a HIV test. It is the only way to know if a person is infected or no.

First Symptoms of HIV in Women

The symptoms of HIV infections cannot be distinguished between sexes separately, and the virus does not show variation as per sex. But then, few of the prominent HIV symptoms in women are,
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Oral symptoms
  • Lipodystrophy
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Vaginal symptoms
  • Delirium
  • Dizziness
  • Skin conditions
Hope this article has provided you with some information on first symptoms of HIV. The only way to escape from the clutches of this fearful disease is to take precaution. Few of the causes of getting infected with HIV is through blood transfusion, unprotected sex with a person infected with HIV, sharing contaminated needles and syringes, injection drug use, from mother to child, etc. If you experience any of these, please get an HIV test done to get that peace of mind.

What are the First Symptoms of HIV Infection

What are the First Symptoms of HIV Infection

The early symptoms of HIV are not specific and are more like other illnesses. The first symptoms of HIV show up when our body starts producing antibodies against the virus. The reason why AIDS is considered to be the most serious disease is because, first, there is no cure for it, and second, it doesn't have specific symptoms. The initial symptoms of HIV will be flu-like. Most of these are also first symptoms of HIV in men. Hence, its initial symptoms includes,
  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Body ache
  • Swollen lymph
  • Rash
  • Sore throat
What are the Symptoms of HIV Infection

Mentioned above are few of the early symptoms of HIV infection. As the disease advances, the symptoms of HIV infections become severe. Since it affects the immune system gradually, it slowly starts making you susceptible to other diseases, infections and illnesses. The person starts contacting infections, which otherwise a normal healthy person wouldn't. With the help of HIV medication, the growth of HIV infections can be lowered. Few of the symptoms of further HIV infections include,
  • Excessive weight loss
  • Cough and shortness of breath
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Night sweats
  • Easy bruising

Thursday, August 25, 2011

What is HIV?

What is HIV?

It is really very important to get the basics of HIV/AIDS clear. HIV is Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is the virus which causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). AIDS is the last stage of HIV infection. HIV are lentiviruses which are slow viruses. The reason why they are known to be as slow viruses, is because they affect the immune system slowly. There are even cases when the first symptoms of HIV starts showing up after several years of contacting infection.

HIV, upon entering the blood stream, starts attacking the CD4 cells (also known as T4 cells). These T4 cells are responsible for a stronger immune system. The more the cells are the, more immune the body is towards external viruses. HIV targets the T4 cells and starts replicating these cells, which leads to the destruction of these vital cells. What follows next is, deterioration of the whole immune system. Studies shows that the final stages of AIDS will leave a patient with only 200 or less T4 cells, when on an average a healthy adult will have 1,000 or more of them!

First Symptoms of HIV

First Symptoms of HIV

The first symptoms of HIV looks more similar to that of other illnesses. This makes it difficult to diagnose it in the initial stages, hence it is extremely important to do an HIV test. Read on to find out more…
First Symptoms of HIV
In the United States, the first case of HIV was reported in the year 1981, and later in the year 1983 it was identified. This was the first time it was known, however, researches had shown that it was there from the late 1970s. Since the time it was identified, numerous beings have been a prey to it. What makes HIV the most dreaded disease is the fact that it has no cure. Let's find out some more information about it and also know about few HIV facts and first symptoms of HIV.
Does HIV Rash Itch?

Most people may wonder is HIV rash itchy? Of course, it is and sometimes it itches like crazy! The HIV rash, apart from being itchy, may be felt to be tender and sore as well, for some people. What is important to be taken note of is this fact about AIDS which states that not all patients develop the signs of initial HIV rash. Similar kind of rash may be experienced by people who are affected by other medical conditions, rather than AIDS.

Whether it is an acute HIV rash or chronic one, there is an important significance attached to this symptom. Experts say that the appearance of this rash is an indication of the stage where the person is most likely to have developed HIV/AIDS.

So you got yourself some important facts about HIV rash. Before I close this article, let's revise on some important precautions to prevent the spread of HIV. Do not ignore the importance of safe sex and use of sterile injections. Also, never share syringes with anyone. Lastly, expecting mothers must always seek medical help if she suspects the development of AIDS in her. With the help of early medical intervention, the baby can be kept from contracting the infection.

Before I take you through HIV rash

What is HIV Rash?

Before I take you through HIV rash, let me continue with some more facts about AIDS. So, as I was saying, it may take several years for the affected person to step in the phase of a fully developed AIDS. There are these cells known as CD4 cells. They are an important part of the immune system, which help in warding off diseases. So what the HIV does is, it keeps on destroying these cells over time, reducing their count to 200. It is then the person is said to have developed AIDS.

Now coming to the HIV rash, its occurrence takes place post about three weeks the infection has taken place. The early signs and symptoms of HIV rash include the skin becoming scaly and somewhat developing an appearance that is similar in the case of the condition known as psoriasis. The rash may include sores that develop on the genital areas, and on the regions of the skin, face, hands and feet. Other HIV rash symptoms include raised bumps or blotches which may appear reddish or brown in color in people with a fair complexion, and dark purple or black for those with a darker complexion. These may have a centralized location, and may appear in multiple parts of the body.

HIV Rash You must be having a lot of questions regarding HIV rash

HIV Rash

You must be having a lot of questions regarding HIV rash. And to answer all your questions, here is an article for easy reference.
HIV Rash
When we are talking about HIV rash, would not it be inappropriate if we miss out on knowing about some basic facts about HIV/AIDS itself? HIV is the short for Human Immuno Deficiency Virus. And you must be aware of the fact that this is the same virus that is responsible for causing a condition, from where there is no escape - AIDS. AIDS, short for Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome, is known to be most deadliest disease in the world. As the name suggests, the virus's main victim is the immune system of the body. Over time, it makes the system so weak that it loses its capability to fight off even the mildest of pathogens. A person affected by AIDS might not be able to survive even a condition such as a common cold. After a person has been infected by HIV, it may take several years for him to develop a fully fledged case of AIDS. More about this condition and about HIV rash has been continued in the following description.

Diagnosis and Treatment for HIV/AIDSA

Diagnosis and Treatment for HIV/AIDS

Presence of human immunodeficiency virus is detected by examining a sample of blood and oral mucus to look for the antibodies that the immune system make against the HIV virus. One common diagnostic test for HIV/AIDS is ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test). Earlier, ELISA was the only test available for the diagnosis of HIV. In this test, a sample of the blood is examined to look for the presence of the antibodies to HIV. If the test shows positive results, then it is repeated for the second time. A second positive result is then followed by another test, known as western blot test. This test is conducted to look for the presence of HIV proteins.

The main problem with the various diagnostic tests is that the results may not be accurate, as the immune system can take some time to make the antibodies. Usually, the immune system takes 3 to 6 months after the infection to make the antibodies against human immunodeficiency virus. Presently, there is no cure for HIV/AIDS. Treatment is mainly aimed towards alleviating the painful symptoms, improving the quality of life of the patients and preventing the complications that may arise from secondary opportunistic infections. Usually, anti-retroviral drugs are used to prolong the lifespan of the patients by inhibiting the replication of HIV. Presently, there are seven classes of anti-retroviral drugs that are available for HIV treatment.

Knowledge about early HIV symptoms in women is very important, as early detection can ensure prompt treatment, which can help to slow down the progression of the disease and prolong the life span of the affected individual. However the symptoms of HIV, especially the early symptoms can be produced by many other health conditions as well. So, it is not possible to detect HIV/AIDS only on the basis of symptoms. Therefore, it is better to get yourself tested, if you feel that you are at a risk of contracting the human immunodeficiency virus.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Early HIV Symptoms in Women

Early HIV Symptoms in Women

Not every individual infected with HIV exhibit the early symptoms. In fact, primary HIV infection can be asymptomatic for many individuals. Even if the symptoms appear, they last only for a couple of days or a few months and then disappear. Many a times, these symptoms may go unnoticed due to the fact that such symptoms can be produced by many other health conditions as well. Women in general, are likely to experience the following most common early HIV symptoms
  • Recurrent vaginal infection
  • Swollen glands in the neck, armpit and the groin area
  • Frequent fever
  • Night sweats
  • Headaches
  • Sudden loss of appetite
  • Excessive tiredness or fatigue
  • Abnormalities in menstrual cycle
  • Gynecological problems
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Persistent skin rashes
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Genital warts and ulcers
  • Herpes infections
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Neuropathy
  • Body fat changes or lipodystrophy
  • Anxiety and sleep disturbances
  • Sudden unexplained weight loss
The early HIV symptoms in women can resemble the symptoms of flu. This is the reason why initial HIV symptoms may go unnoticed or mistaken for the symptoms of other viral infections. The severe or more distinct symptoms of HIV infection may not appear for years.

Transmission of HIV

Transmission of HIV

HIV/AIDS is a sexually transmitted disease and the human immunodeficiency virus can be found in body fluid of the infected individual. So, the virus gets transmitted through blood, vaginal fluid, semen and breast milk of the infected individual. More commonly, the virus spreads through unprotected sex, blood transfusion and use of a common needle during intravenous drug use. The virus can also spread from an infected mother to her child either during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. After being infected with the virus, a person may develop the early symptoms within a few weeks to several months.

Early HIV Symptoms in Women

Early HIV Symptoms in Women

Early HIV symptoms in women are usually non-specific and they last for a few days to months. To know more about HIV infection and the symptoms produced by this infection, read this article.
Early HIV Symptoms in Women
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, a type of lentivirus, which is a member of the retrovirus family. This virus causes the disease, known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS. This disease is characterized by progressive weakening of the immune system, due to large scale destruction of certain white blood cells by the virus. These white blood cells, are an important component of the immune system, and are concerned with fighting infectious agents and diseases like, cancer. So, their gradual destruction paves the way for serious opportunistic infections. However, an initial HIV infection can take several years to develop into AIDS, and cause other serious health problems. In the early stage of HIV infection, only a few symptoms appear. The early HIV symptoms in women can be slightly different from the early HIV symptoms in men. But before discussing more about early symptoms of HIV in women, let's take a brief look at how the virus gets transmitted from one person to another.

Acute HIV Symptoms

Acute HIV Symptoms

A number of symptoms can be observed in the acute HIV infection stage. These symptoms usually start appearing within 2 to 4 weeks from the time of contracting the virus. The acute HIV symptoms in men and women are more or less similar. These symptoms usually resemble the symptoms of flu or mononucleosis infection. The most common early symptoms of HIV infection are
  • Fever and headache
  • Swollen glands or lymph nodes
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Oral thrush
  • Sore throat
  • Unusual skin rash
  • Mouth ulcers
These early HIV symptoms can be produced by many health conditions other than acute HIV. So, it is not possible to identify the condition only on the basis of acute HIV symptoms. Rash or skin rash observed in HIV infected individuals is usually different from the skin rash that is usually caused by allergic reactions. HIV rash symptoms can be a bit similar to the rash caused by psoriasis. HIV skin rash is usually reddish or brownish in color and can develop across the body including, the genital area and anus. Now, you must be willing to know, 'how long do acute HIV symptoms last?' The early HIV symptoms usually subside within 3 to 14 days.

Causes of Acute HIV Infection

Causes of Acute HIV Infection

AIDS is a sexually transmitted disease along with syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea. But, the acute HIV infection that develops after the initial exposure to human immunodeficiency virus is not similar to AIDS. It may take several years for the initial infection to cause AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Acute HIV infection is caused by a rapid proliferation or replication of human immunodeficiency virus. Upon entering the body, HIV attaches itself to the CD4 or T4 cells, a type of white blood cells. These white blood cells responsible for fighting infectious agents.

HIV first attaches to the CD4 cells and then injects it's RNA into the cell. In this way, it takes over the CD4 cell and then replicates using the division mechanism of the host cell (CD4 cell). The new HIV cells continue the process of replication. As a result, the number of CD4 cells decline, while the number of HIV cell increases in the body. The symptoms of acute HIV infection appears during this period. However, this condition does not last long, as the immune system responds after a while, and increases the number of CD4 cells vigorously. These CD4 cells remove much of the virus from the blood. The battle between HIV and CD4 cells continue, which can last for many years till the number of the virus in the body increases to such an extent that the immune system starts losing the battle.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Acute HIV Symptoms

Acute HIV Symptoms

Acute HIV infection is the early stage of HIV infection. This article dwells on the acute HIV symptoms and some important facts about this stage of HIV infection.
Acute HIV Symptoms
Acute HIV infection, also known as acute 'seroconversion syndrome' is the first stage of HIV infection. In this stage, HIV or human immunodeficiency virus replicates rapidly. The acute or primary HIV infection usually occurs about 2 to 4 weeks following the exposure to the virus. A large number of individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus develop some flu like symptoms during the primary HIV infection stage. Such acute HIV symptoms in women and men usually disappear within a few weeks. But, for many people, there may not be any signs and symptoms of primary HIV infection. After the initial infection, no symptom or illness can be observed in the affected individual for many years. This stage is known as asymptomatic HIV infection. But occasionally, acute HIV infection can gradually progress to early symptomatic HIV infection and then to AIDS or advanced HIV infection.

Signs & Symptoms of an HIV RashA

Signs & Symptoms of an HIV Rash
An acute HIV rash can be tender and sore. It can also cause itching at times. The rash caused by acute HIV infection can resemble the rash caused by psoriasis to a great extent. HIV rash is often found to be accompanied by a few other symptoms, which are considered as early HIV symptoms. These symptoms, besides HIV rash symptoms are, fever and headaches, swollen lymph glands, muscle aches, fatigue, sore throat, diarrhea, loss of appetite, mouth ulcers, oral thrush and unexplained weight loss. However, it is important to keep in mind that HIV skin rash does not appear in all HIV positive individuals going through the acute infection stage. The other early symptoms of HIV infection may also be absent in some HIV positive individuals.

So, this was a brief overview of acute HIV rash symptoms in men and women. The significance of HIV rash is that it occurs during the seroconversion stage, when an individual can test positive for HIV. This is because, during this stage, the immune system starts producing antibodies against the virus. So, the rash can help to detect HIV infection in the early stage. This in turn, can help to prevent the spread of the virus with the help of appropriate preventive measures. However, skin rash can be caused by many other health conditions besides acute HIV infection. So, developing a skin rash does not mean that a person is HIV positive. But, people who think that they are at a risk of contracting the virus can get themselves tested, on observing an acute HIV rash and other early symptoms of HIV infection.

When Does the Acute HIV Rash Appear?

When Does the Acute HIV Rash Appear?
As has been mentioned already, HIV rash develops in the acute or primary infection stage, where the human immunodeficiency virus replicates rapidly after entering the body. This stage is also known as 'seroconversion syndrome', where the immune system starts developing antibodies against the microorganisms or infectious agents present in the blood serum, in response to an infection or immunization.

In this stage, the number of HIV cells in blood start increasing, while the number of CD4 cells decline considerably. CD4 cells are the white blood cells, which fight infectious agents. The human immunodeficiency viruses attach themselves to the CD4 cells, inject their RNA into these cells, and then replicate using the division mechanism of the host CD4 cells. But soon the immune system responds by producing more CD4 cells and antibodies against the virus.

What Does Acute HIV Rash Look Like?
The HIV rash is a maculopapular rash and it can affect any part of the body. But more commonly, the skin rash develops on the face, hands, feet and trunk. Occasionally, it can appear in the genital area and the anus as well. The rash caused by acute HIV infection is generally reddish or brown in color. HIV skin rash is normally a small and slightly raised rash, that can be sore or itchy. In individuals with light skin, the acute HIV rash may appear red or brown, while in those with dark skin, it can be dark brown or black in color. The rash typically lasts for about 2 weeks. Other than acute HIV infection, conditions like, herpes simplex, herpes zoster infections and molluscum contagiosum can also cause skin rash in HIV positive people. Use of certain medications such as, cotrimoxazole can too cause skin lesions in HIV infected individuals that can look very similar to the HIV rash.

Acute HIV Rash

Acute HIV Rash

Acute HIV rash usually appears during the primary HIV infection stage. HIV rash can appear in single or multiple parts of the body and it can be itchy. Know more about HIV rash, its appearance and symptoms with this article...
Acute HIV Rash
Acute HIV rash is a sign of primary HIV infection. However, the rash may not appear in all individuals going through the primary infection stage. The acute or primary HIV infection can be asymptomatic in many individuals. For others however, symptoms like, skin rash and flu like symptoms can develop within 2 to 3 weeks from the time of contracting the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV. The skin rash and other acute HIV infection symptoms then disappear within a few weeks, after which no signs or symptoms of illness can be observed in the affected individual for a long time. It may take several years for the initial HIV infection to develop into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Below here is some more information about HIV rash, its appearance and symptoms.

No Unprotected Sex

No Unprotected Sex
Unprotected penetrative sex can conduce to transmission of the virus from one body into another. If you are HIV positive abstain from sex for the sake of the other person. Both male and female condoms are supposed to protect and prevent transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD), however, it is not foolproof. Having sex with multiple partners also increases the risk of contracting AIDS, thus, be faithful to one partner.

Careful Blood Transfusions
People working in blood banks need to be very careful while dealing with blood. They not only have to take of themselves, but also need to test blood accurately. Transfusion of HIV positive blood at the hospital has caused large numbers of people across the globe to die of AIDS.

Sterilized Instruments
People in the medical field or tattooing industry should be very careful while dealing with their sharp instruments. They should maintain necessary precautions such that they do not get pricked by the infected needle in their hands. Moreover, they should also sterilize equipments before reuse to prevent the spread of infection from one patient to another. Sharing injections to take drugs, razors, etc. is not advised.

Breastfeeding Precautions
To prevent HIV transmission from mother to child, the pregnant woman needs to take some antiretroviral drugs to stop the transfer of the virus from the mother's body into the fetus growing in the womb and even during childbirth. The risk of passing the virus via breast milk can be avoided by feeding the baby exclusively on breast milk and not even water. This is because giving formula milk or water can damage the child's insides. The mother should make sure the nipples are not cracked or bleeding. Start feeding the baby solid food at 4-6 months and then stop breastfeeding immediately. One can even avoid breastfeeding, however, only if an alternative feeding option is available, that is feasible, safe and affordable.

How is HIV Transmitted

How is HIV Transmitted

HIV can be transmitted in body fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk. Having sexual intercourse with an HIV infected person can get a person HIV positive. The virus passes into the other person via the semen or vaginal fluid. Moreover, the virus can also be transmitted through infected syringes, blood transfusions or by infected blood splashing onto a person's open wounds or sores. If infected blood falls on the skin, the virus cannot enter the body, because of the skin that acts as a barrier. However, any wound or cut is vulnerable ground. If infected blood falls on a wound, it will directly pass into the bloodstream and infect the body. Read more on HIV facts - facts about AIDS.

How is HIV not Transmitted

You will not get HIV from mosquito bites (or else we all would have been infected by now!), hugging or holding the hands of a person wilh HIV, swimming in the same pool with an HIV positive person or playing indoor or outdoor games with an HIV positive person. HIV is also not transmitted through contact with saliva, tears or sweat. Thus, if an HIV positive person coughs or sneezes around you, do not panic. Moreover, drinking from the same glass or using the same toilet that an HIV infected person has used will also not infect you. Coming in casual contact with HIV infected people at work, school, social gatherings, etc. will not cause you any harm.

Crucial Precautions Against HIV

Below are some basic precautions to prevent the spread of HIV.

Avoid Mouth to Mouth Kissing
Although HIV is not transmitted through saliva, kissing an HIV positive person is not safe. This is simply because coming in contact with even small amount of blood can get you infected. A drop of blood can be present in the mouth if the person has just flossed, eaten extremely hot or sharp foods or if the person has a gum disease. The person may be unaware of that blood drop in his or her mouth, but it's enough to get you infected. Thus, mouth to mouth kissing is dangerous.

Precautions to Prevent the Spread of HIVA

Precautions to Prevent the Spread of HIV

In this article we will discuss precautions to prevent the spread of HIV. AIDS (Auto Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a disease that is spread via body fluids like semen, vaginal fluid, blood and breast milk. Its spread can be greatly curbed by maintaining certain precautions.
Precautions to Prevent the Spread of HIV

We are all aware of the sexually transmitted disease AIDS, caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This is a disease that destroys the immune system and ruins its ability to fight infections and protect the body from harmful microorganisms, thereby leading to opportunistic infections. It's a deadly disease that has no cure and is considered as a pandemic by the World Health Organization.

South Africa is known to have the highest number of AIDS cases in the world, with the numbers touching over 5 million (of the 19 million). For years together this continent lived in denial, however, now things seem to be different. The continent is now gripped by a surge of tests, treatment and preventive measures to inhibit the spread of the disease. In fact, the United Nation's officials state that South Africa's attempt to control the spread of HIV/AIDS is 'the largest and fastest expansion of AIDS services ever attempted by any nation'. So what are some precautions to prevent the spread of HIV? Before we get into that let us first understand how HIV is transmitted. Read more on South Africa's AIDS treatment plan boosted.

HIV Symptoms in Children

HIV Symptoms in Children
HIV can be transmitted to the child when it is in its mother's womb and when it is breastfed. Some children also contract this deadly virus during childbirth. The symptoms of HIV vary according to the age of the child. The HIV symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. A child who has tested positive for HIV will show the following symptoms;
  • Infants who are infected by the HIV may not show the symptoms of HIV, but in some cases the infant develops persistent diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, a yeast infection of the mouth called thrush and sometimes a swollen abdomen. The infant also becomes irritable and difficult to console.
  • The milder HIV symptoms include sinus infections, ear infections and skin rashes. The child has problems in weight gain. In some cases, the child may also experience unexplained loss of weight.
  • Common illnesses, in the next stage of HIV, like pneumonia, infections in the ears and tonsillitis may become severe. The child may also experience severe chickenpox, inflammation of the liver and lung tissues, high fever and kidney diseases. There is also a considerable delay in the mental development of the child.
  • Normal growth of the child, according to the age, is affected since the organs in the body are under developed. The child also has problems while walking due to malformed legs.
  • Severe HIV symptoms include development of multiple infections like bacterial infections, encephalopathy, systemic yeast infection, cancer and pneumocystis pneumonia, which is a severe form of pneumonia.

Monday, August 22, 2011

HIV Symptoms: Initial Stages

HIV Symptoms: Initial Stages
The initial or the early stages of HIV infection show no signs and symptoms. The symptoms may develop two to four weeks after the individual has been infected. The individual may complain of severe and persistent headache accompanied by fever, swelling in the lymph glands, sore throat and HIV symptoms rash, where the skin appears to be dry, itchy and flaky. These symptoms can be controlled with the help of a few AIDS vaccines that are not yet completely preventive though. More on early symptoms of HIV infection.

HIV Symptoms: Later Stages
These symptoms develop after eight or nine years of the first attack of the virus. The virus continues to attack and destroy the lymphocytes thus hampering the production of new white blood cells, which may lead to mild or chronic infections like unexplained weight loss, loose stools, cough accompanied by shortness of breath etc.

HIV Symptoms: Latest Stages
The latest stages of infection occur only after ten years of the first symptoms. The symptoms in this stage can be defined as AIDS, where there is a decline in the lymphocyte count and the immunity system is completely destroyed. In this stage the affected individual may experience chills with a very high fever upto 102 ÂşF, night sweats, blurred vision, chronic headache and diarrhea, eruption of lesions and white spots on the tongue and mouth. The individual may also look completely fatigued and the signs of weight loss become evident. This stage can also lead to the development of cancers like cervical cancer, lymphoma and Kaposi's sarcoma. The survival rates of this stage is very rare as it mostly leads to the death of the affected individual.

HIV Symptoms

HIV Symptoms

One of the most dangerous and life threatening diseases that has no cure as yet is HIV/AIDS. Read on for more information on HIV symptoms and AIDS.
HIV Symptoms
Human immunodeficiency virus or HIV is a deadly virus that attacks the immune system of the body. This sexually transmitted disease (STD) interferes with the proper functioning of the immune system and makes the body more susceptible to a myriad of diseases. The body loses its ability to fight against disease causing viruses and bacteria and fall prey to infections like meningitis and pneumonia, and various types of cancer. If HIV symptoms prolong and are left untreated, then they may cause AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is a fatal disease. A total of approximately 39.5 million people worldwide, have been affected by AIDS. Though in some countries, this deadly disease has seen a considerable decline, but in some countries the number of people affected has not changed and has even seen a growth.

The HIV symptoms can affect an individual in phases. There are three phases of infection, namely, the initial or early phase of infection, the later phase and the latest phase of infection. Once the virus enters the body, it begins to develop at a fast pace. Though initially the presence of this virus is not so evident, it can be passed on to others. The virus dwells in the lymph nodes where it duplicates and multiplies. The virus attacks the CD4 lymphocytes (or T cells) and completely destroys the white blood cells hence affecting the immunity of the body. Every phase of infection shows different symptoms and sometimes these symptoms can be mistaken as just a common cold or flu like symptoms. The HIV symptoms in men are similar to the HIV symptoms in women. Let's see more about the different phases of HIV symptoms.

HIV Symptoms in Men after 6 Months

HIV Symptoms in Men after 6 Months

The early symptoms of HIV infection are first noticed after two to three months of the infection. After six months the HIV symptoms in men may tend to become severe that may require medical attention. Though certain AIDS vaccines are used to reduce the severity, these symptoms can only be controlled to some extent but they do not have a complete cure. Given below are some HIV symptoms in men that are observed after 6 months of the initial stage of infection;
  • Rapid and unexplained weight loss
  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Neurological disorders like loss of memory and depression
  • Eruption of white spots or lesions in the tongue and on the upper palate of the mouth
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sleep disturbances and night sweats
  • Dry cough
  • Pneumonia
'It is always better to be safe than sorry', goes a popular adage. In order to avoid HIV symptoms in men, you must take necessary precautions like using contraceptives, sterilized needles and practicing a healthy lifestyle. Life is a gift, so preserve it with care.

HIV Symptoms in Men: Initial StagesAA

HIV Symptoms in Men: Initial Stages

In order to detect the presence of HIV, one may have to undergo a series of tests. Though the initial HIV symptoms of men are very mild and can go unnoticed as a normal illness. Fever is the first symptom that can be observed if an individual has been affected by HIV. This symptom usually occurs after two to four weeks of infection. The fever can be mild in nature (around 100 ÂşF) and dissipates after a week as cold or flu. Fever can be accompanied by headaches that can be mild or severe in nature. Rashes and certain skin irregularities that become apparent soon after the infection, are also one of the HIV symptoms in men. Rash, also known as a skin rash looks like a patch and is slightly darker than the surrounding area. In some cases, this rash is elevated and is itchy and has a burning sensation. Since the HIV attacks the lymph glands first, it may cause a swelling in the lymph glands that can be mistaken for another illness. Some men even experience a loss of energy and stamina leading to fatigue. They may even feel tired after work or any physical activity.

AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, also known as HIV. When this virus enters the human body, it attacks the immune system, causing a series of infections, finally resulting in AIDS. AIDS is caused due to many reasons, the chief reason being unprotected sex with an infected person. AIDS can also be spread through blood transfusions, using infected needles and from the mother to the child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. The initial HIV symptoms in men usually go unnoticed since they are very mild in nature. The body becomes prone to many contagious and infectious diseases, since an attack of the HIV completely destroys the immune system.

When the human immunodeficiency virus enters the body, it always attacks the lymph glands, to destroy the white blood cells or lymphocytes. The virus multiplies inside the lymph glands quickly, but the signs of the presence of the virus take time to surface. The symptoms of HIV in men may vary from person to person, where some individuals may show immediate signs, and in some individuals it may take time for the virus to spread. Usually the early HIV symptoms in men may be mistaken for cold and flu or any other viral infection. The stages of severity of HIV are branched according to the symptoms, like early or mild stage, moderate stage and severe stage. It has been observed that usually men display the early symptoms of the attack of this harmful virus. Let's discuss about the HIV symptoms in men.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute HIV Infection in Men

Signs and Symptoms of Acute HIV Infection in Men

The acute HIV symptoms in men start appearing after 2 or 3 weeks of infection. The typical symptoms of HIV infection are:
  • Persistent headache
  • Frequent fever
  • Swollen glands (lymph, neck, armpit, groins)
  • Muscle ache
  • Fatigue
  • Appetite loss
  • Sore throat
  • Mouth rash
  • Weight loss
  • Diarrhea
  • Oral thrush
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Unusual rash over skin
  • Cough
  • Chest infection
These were the acute HIV symptoms in men during the early stages. The latest stage of infection is after 10 years and the condition at that time is known as AIDS. There's a severe depletion in the lymphocytes present in the blood and the immunity of body is completely destroyed, making it susceptible to a wide range of diseases. Men in the last stage of AIDS can develop Kaposi's sarcoma, lymphoma, etc. The person undergoes severe loose stools and rapid weight loss. The body becomes shrunken with development of white spots and lesions all over mouth and tongue. Pneumonia with high fever, night sweats and excessive fatigue takes toll on the body. The chances of survival is almost negligible when a person is in his last stage of HIV infection.

Now the question is how to detect the acute HIV symptoms in men correctly. HIV diagnosis was earlier performed by the technique of ELISA. Even after detection of the early symptoms, it's still a controversial issue, whether antiretroviral medications, should be implemented immediately. It's because the deterioration starts after a few years, the fatal effect of this sexually transmitted disease, AIDS. However, doctors say that it's safe to take the anti HIV medications at the initial stage if the tests have confirmed the presence of viral load in the blood. Efficient clinical tests like, ultra fast HIV test, HIV duo test, HIV INSTI test, etc. perform quick and accurate diagnosis of HIV. Above all, it's utmost important for family members and friends to take care of the person and help him to lead a normal social life

Acute HIV Infection in Men

Acute HIV Infection in Men

Blood samples of HIV infected men shows a high count of the virus. The virus attacks the immune system and weakens it. Due to it's similarity to flu like symptoms, patients often go untreated. Therefore, identification of early HIV symptoms in men is vital for it's diagnosis. In most of the cases, the disease is contracted by unprotected sex with a person suffering from HIV, through blood, semen or vaginal fluid. Another way for the spread of infection is sharing the common needle for intravenous injections. If the needle is contaminated with HIV infected blood, chances of getting the disease is 100%. The virus can also spread from breast milk of HIV infected mothers.

The HIV virus attaches itself to the receptors of the CD4 or T-cells of the white blood cells and then injects its RNA to it. With the mechanism of host cells, it then starts multiplying. The virus takes over the host cell machinery and the number of CD4 cells decline. The early symptoms gradually decline as the CD4 cells are capable of eradicating the virus. The body continues combating the deadly virus and after 4 to 5 years, the cells lose their capability to fight. At that point the immune system loses the battle and the body becomes highly vulnerable to many diseases. That was the complete prognosis of AIDS.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

The acute symptoms of HIV

The acute symptoms of HIV infection arise when the HIV attacked cells of the immune system are on the verge of complete damage. Acute HIV infection is also known as seroconversion syndrome. This is the first stage of HIV infection, which marks rapid replication of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The infection actually occurs after 2 to 4 weeks of the viral attack. The primary infection stage in men occurs with flu like symptoms that disappear within a few weeks time. Sometimes, the HIV symptoms go unnoticed in both men and women. Initially, the acute HIV symptoms in men were described as flu or mononucleosis-like illness, affecting mostly homosexuals. Today, the acute HIV syndrome is identified in 30-50% of newly infected individuals during the period of seroconversion.

HIV Infection in Women

HIV Infection in Women
There are various HIV infection symptoms which are displayed by women as the virus has a completely different effect on their body as well. These early and late HIV/AIDS symptoms in women can be,
  • Frequent or severe vaginal infections
  • Abnormal Pap smears
  • Recurrent vaginal yeast infections
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease or PID
  • Pap smears that indicate abnormal changes or dysplasia
  • Constant fatigue
  • Frequent fevers that include night sweats
  • Rapid weight loss without dieting
  • White spots or abnormal blemishes in the mouth
  • Decreased appetite and diarrhea
  • Genital ulcers
  • Swollen lymph glands in the neck, underarm area, or groin
  • Severe mucosal herpes infections
Symptoms of HIV Infection in Children
When HIV is transferred to children from their parents, it is the worst disease to be born with. Some infants do not show any symptoms of the virus in the early stages of life, because the incubation of the virus itself takes more than 10 years. Therefore, these children have delayed growth and development. There are three stages of the infections in kids, viz. the mild, moderate and severe. These are observed when the child is below puberty and shows the first symptoms of HIV. These are,

Mild: Swelling of the lymph nodes and parotid gland and abdomen, recurring sinus, ear infections, skin rash.
Moderate: Inflammation of lung tissues and the liver, persistent diarrhea and fever, thrush, severe chickenpox, kidney disease.
Severe: Multiple serious bacterial infections, systemic yeast infection, encephalopathy, pneumocystis pneumonia, and cancer.

With these mentioned above, you must have learned what are the symptoms of HIV infection in individuals of various age groups and sexes. This is a dreaded disease which is the worst curse on humanity. Fighting against it together can be much easier than facing it alone. So, make sure you take precautions to stay away and if you have contracted it use medical help before time slips out.

Symptoms of HIV Infection

Symptoms of HIV Infection

When it is rooted in the body, there are a few early symptoms of HIV infection that are observed. These are like any other common cold or flu symptoms and thus are usually ignored. Then this infection goes into the asymptomatic phase where the virus does the maximum damage to the CD4 T cells of the immune system which are responsible for battling infections. You can then be sure of how HIV infects helper T cells, dendritic cells and macrophages, and the immune system starts getting weaker after which the virus multiplies with ease. At this time, patients are the most vulnerable to minute infections which can be fatal for them. This is when, the body starts showing the later symptoms of HIV infection, which cannot be controlled. Thus, to make sure you know what are the symptoms of HIV infection, take a look at the following paragraphs.

Symptoms of HIV Infection in Men
The incubation period of an HIV infection is estimated to be about 10 years for young adults, which might differ individually. Thus, the infection is asymptomatic for years before it goes to the later stages of symptoms and then ends up being fatal. HIV symptoms in men and women are the same with slight differences. If you are trying to find out what are the symptoms of HIV infection in men, they can be,
  • Fever and headache
  • Swollen Glands
  • Rash and flaking
  • Diarrhea accompanied with the above symptoms
  • Certain amount of unexplained weight loss
  • Lethargy and lack of energy due to low white blood cell count

The early symptoms of HIV in women

The early symptoms of HIV in women can be easily identified by the increased susceptibility to infections like yeast infection, vaginal infection, bacterial vaginosis, burning, itching and dryness in vagina. The chances of other sexually transmitted diseases also increase like gonorrhea, chlamydia, HPV (Human papillomavirus). The infected woman may find urinating as well as the sexual intercourse extremely painful. There may be notable changes in the menstrual cycle heavy bleeding, bleeding between the cycle or no bleeding at all. Apart from these early HIV symptoms in women, the other symptoms that manifest a little later are:
  • Chronic muscle and joint pain
  • Tiredness and constant fatigue
  • Persistent infections
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases
  • Weight loss
  • Frequent fever
  • Night sweats
  • Genital ulcers
  • Vaginal yeast infection
  • Flaky skin
  • Blurred vision
  • Short term memory loss
  • Confusion
  • Enlarged glands
  • Coma
The virus weakens the immune system and the condition manifests into AIDS that is an incurable stage. It has been found that the virus may remain dormant in the infected body for as long as 7-10 years or it may start showing infection signs within a few months of infection. This is majorly dependent on the health of the infected person, resistance provided by the immune system and the lifestyle that one follows.

Knowing the early symptoms of HIV infection helps in early diagnosis and that in turn increases the life expectancy. Therapies and treatments for the HIV related infections can be more effective if the condition is detected early. Women, in general, neglect their health and it has been found that most women get diagnosed in later stages when the health care and treatments become less effective. Apart from that, knowing about early symptoms of HIV in women helps to prevent the spread of infection, and also start the much needed treatment.