Progression of HIV Symptoms: Understanding Its Sequence
HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that compromises the immune system. Those who have had sex with someone who is HIV-positive or whose status is unknown are at risk. HIV symptoms appear in stages, with the first stage being primary HIV infection, also known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) or acute HIV infection.
During this phase, symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, excessive fatigue, chills, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, a red or discolored, itchy rash with small bumps, mouth ulcers or oral thrush may occur. However, it's important to note that not everyone will experience these symptoms.
If a negative result is received, it should be confirmed with a second test after the window period. Antigen/antibody tests using blood from a vein have a window period of 18 to 45 days, while finger-prick antigen/antibody tests can be used 18 to 90 days after potential exposure. For quicker results, a finger-prick rapid self-test antibody test can be used 23 to 90 days after potential exposure.
Nucleic acid tests can detect an HIV infection between 10 and 33 days after exposure. Regular testing for STIs can also reduce the chance of contracting HIV. It's recommended that anyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once. Those who are at higher risk should test at least once a year.
If a positive result is obtained, confirmatory testing is necessary. If the risk of repeat testing is not feasible, sexual partners can protect themselves by taking a medication called preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Taking PrEP can reduce the chance of contracting HIV for those who are at higher risk.
There is currently no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral drugs have been available as treatment since the late 1980s. These drugs stop the virus from replicating, lowering levels so significantly that the virus becomes undetectable. Medications help maintain quality of life, prevent progression of the disease, and can stop the transmission of the virus to other people.
However, it's crucial to note that without treatment, the virus can progress to stage 3 HIV, known as AIDS. In this stage, other medical interventions are usually necessary to treat related illnesses or complications. The average survival rate once a person receives an AIDS diagnosis is 3 years without treatment.
Sharing needles or syringes also increases the risk of HIV transmission. Abstaining from sex and avoiding sharing injection equipment when using injectable drugs are the only 100% effective methods of preventing HIV.
Using condoms or other barrier methods properly alongside water- or silicone-based lubricants can reduce the chance of contracting HIV. Additionally, having honest discussions with partners about sexual health and histories can also help reduce the chance of contracting HIV.
Healthcare professionals may prescribe a combination of drugs to prevent the virus from becoming resistant. They will monitor the amount of HIV in your blood with viral load tests and check the number of CD4 cells in your blood. Latency in HIV infection can last up to 10 or 15 years.
In conclusion, understanding HIV and its transmission, prevention, and treatment is crucial for maintaining good health. Regular testing, safe sex practices, and open communication with partners are key to reducing the risk of contracting HIV. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it's important to get tested as soon as possible.
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