HIV | Part 4 | Treatment of HIV/AIDS
July 11, 2019 | Abigail Mckay

HIV | Part 4 | Treatment of HIV/AIDS

 

اردو میں پڑھیں

HIV treatment should be the top priority immediately after being diagnosed.  The benefits of treatment include minimizing the likelihood of transmitting the virus to others, prolonging life expectancy, and drastically slowing the progression from HIV to the end stage, AIDS. 

Read How HIV Becomes AIDS in Pakistan in Part 3


The drug class used in the treatment of HIV is called antiretroviral therapy or ART.  HIV is a type of retrovirus, which is why ART is the preferred treatment method.  Unfortunately, there is no cure for HIV, so it is imperative to manage the disease through ART. This therapy is effective at reducing the viral load through the use of multiple medications. Essentially, ART keeps the viral load low and CD4 levels high, which, in turn, continues to allow the immune system to function.  Side effects of ART medications include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, dizziness, and fatigue.  It is of utmost importance to take the medications as prescribed by your physician.  If you discontinue the use of ART or even miss multiple doses, you are at risk to transmit the virus to others and possibly progress more quickly to the subsequent stage.

 

In this day and age, a healthy, well-rounded lifestyle is easily obtainable even with HIV.  Proper exercise, healthy eating habits, and adequate rest are essential to allow the body to rejuvenate and function optimally.  There are support groups and other tools at your disposal to help emotionally cope with HIV.  As always, consult with your physician before making any lifestyle or medication changes.  Your physician is part of your care team, and they strive to help you achieve the very best life. 

For more information about HIV, get online consultation from doctor or order HIV/AIDS lab test online and get tested at home.

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Abigail Mckay

Abigail has been a nurse for five years, and throughout her time as a nurse, she has worked in multiple medical-surgical units as well as spent time in the infusion therapy clinic and endoscopy lab. She is passionate about preventative medicine through patient education regarding nutrition and exercise. Due to her passion, Abigail has gone on to earn two certifications including a certification in medical-surgical nursing (CMSRN) and a certification in holistic nursing (HNB-BC), in hopes of being able to better serve her patients. Abigail earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA and now bettering patient education in the healthcare system through partnering with American TelePhysicians.