HIV | Part 1 | What is Human Immunodeficiency Virus?
July 08, 2019 | Abigail Mckay

HIV | Part 1 | What is Human Immunodeficiency Virus?

 

اردو میں پڑھیں

Human immunodeficiency virus or HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system by destroying the cells that fight off disease or infection. The progressive destruction of the CD4 cells, which are the primary infection-fighting cells of the immune system, making it progressively difficult for the body to fight off infection.  Eventually, opportunistic infections and cancers may arise, evidencing the progression from HIV to AIDS, also known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.  There is currently no cure for HIV, and without proper treatment, HIV can lead to AIDS.

 

It is vital to understand that HIV is not transmitted through air, water, saliva, sweat, tears, insects, or sharing toilets, food, or drink.  Instead, it is transmitted through HIV infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. Sexual activity, childbirth, breastfeeding, and shared needle syringes are well-known methods for spreading HIV.  Appropriate strategies to prevent HIV include abstinence, limiting the number of sexual partners, never sharing needles, and using condoms correctly. 

 

Symptoms of HIV and AIDS, the diagnostic process, as well as the treatment options, will be discussed in the following series.  Stay tuned tomorrow for the next installment. If you believe you are at the risk for HIV, talk to online doctor for consultation 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.