Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a communicable disease that attacks the immune system. Treatment advances now allow many people with HIV to live for decades. The person with HIV should exercise good self-care, including scheduling regular physician visits, following physician advice, eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol abuse and illicit drugs.
Diagnosis
Several HIV tests are available. MayoClinic.com explains that one commonly used test requires a blood sample. This test gives results in about 20 minutes. A second type of test uses a sample of cells obtained from swabbing the gums. A positive test result on this test is followed by a blood test to confirm the diagnosis. An at-home test is also available. This test works by having the person mail a sample of blood to the laboratory and then call for anonymous results in about a week. Older blood tests are still available, which require about two weeks to process and take a total of three tests to confirm a positive diagnosis.
The person newly diagnosed with HIV should receive counseling to learn about treatment options, ways to avoid complications and how to avoid spreading the infection. He must also be educated about how to share the information with previous sexual partners so that they can be tested as well.
Communicable Status
A person with HIV must take precautions to avoid spreading the infection to others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explain that he should either abstain from sexual intercourse or use a condom every time he has sex. A dental dam should be used for oral sex. A person with HIV should tell a potential sexual partner about his HIV status, even if he plans to use protection. Toothbrushes, razors and grooming scissors should not be shared with others. Needles and similar supplies for legal or illicit drug use must not be shared.
Effects
The human immunodeficiency virus has multiple effects on the body. Early effects include a fever, rash, sore throat and swollen lymph glands. As the virus damages the immune system, other effects become apparent, including excessive tiredness, unintentional weight loss, fever, night sweats, chronic diarrhea and difficulty breathing. Eventually, the virus may be classified as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Common manifestations of AIDS include blurry vision, white lesions on the tongue, prolonged fever and further weight loss. These are the result of infections related to the diminished capacity of the immune system.
Treatment Options
Antiretroviral medications are the mainstay of HIV treatment. MayoClinic.com explains that there are seven different types of these medicines, each with different actions against the virus. They are indicated at different times of the disease process. These medicines are usually used as a combination treatment. Side effects can be severe.
Vulnerabilities
The person with HIV is vulnerable to infection. He should avoid people with contagious diseases and exercise caution in situations in which he is likely to contract an illness. Crowds, daycare centers, general practitioner offices and pediatrician offices are areas of increased risk of the transmission of infection, especially in cold climates in the winter months. When these places cannot be avoided, care should be taken to lessen the risk of being coughed or sneezed on. Frequent handwashing and use of hand disinfectant can help reduce the risk of becoming infected. It is also important to practice safe sex or abstinence to avoid contracting a sexually-transmitted disease including hepatitis.
The person with HIV is also vulnerable to mental problems, such as anxiety and depression. This risk can be lessened by talking with supportive friends, limiting stress, finding a support group and seeking mental health counseling when needed.
