In fact, the HIV virus weakens the body’s immune system against infections and diseases. Symptoms of infection with the virus, which is transmitted from person to person through body secretions, usually progress over time. However, there are specific treatments to slow or stop the progression of HIV.
If left untreated, the HIV virus can damage immune cells and increase the risk of developing AIDS.
Also, if HIV infection is not treated, the risk of some infections called “opportunistic infections” will increase. Opportunistic infections are infections that occur more frequently and more frequently in people with weakened immune systems, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
There are three stages to HIV infection. In the first stage, a person experiences flu-like symptoms in the first month of infection with the virus. There is a large amount of virus in the bloodstream at this stage and the risk of transmitting the virus to others is high.
The virus is replicated using CD4 cells and spreads throughout the body. In this process, CD4 cells are destroyed.
Symptoms of this stage include joint and muscle pain, feeling tired, fever, sores in the mouth, night sweats, sore throat and inflammation of the glands.
In the second stage, the virus is active but reproduces very little. People generally have no symptoms at this stage or the severity is very mild.
In people who do not take the drug, the second stage lasts about 10 years, but people who are on treatment programs stay in this stage for decades because drug treatment reduces viral activity.
At this stage, it is also possible to transmit the virus to other people, although patients undergoing treatment are less likely to transmit the virus to others.
AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection. Affected people who do not take medication are more likely to reach this stage.
The symptoms of people living with AIDS vary widely, but some of the most common symptoms include blemishes, blurred vision, diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, constant tiredness, memory loss, and depression.
The most effective way to slow down or stop the progression of HIV is to diagnose it early and use appropriate treatment methods. The two treatments used to stop the virus from progressing include antiretroviral drugs (ARTs) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEPs).
According to experts, lifestyle factors play a role in how the HIV virus develops, especially in strengthening the immune system and helping to fight infection.
According to Medical News Today, some of the most important factors include the following:
– Reducing stress
– Prevention of other diseases and infections and regular vaccinations according to the doctor’s diagnosis
– Do not smoke
– Exercise
– Having a healthy diet
