In 2006, 56,000 people contracted the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Patients can experience a wide range of effects from HIV infection and AIDS. HIV treatment continues to advance, and community support systems are available for patients with these conditions. An HIV or AIDS diagnosis can be overwhelming; however, patients can take positive steps for their health by being informed about these diseases and working with their doctors on a treatment regimen that fits their lifestyles.
Effects on the Immune System
HIV destroys blood cells called CD4 cells that fight off disease. HIV attacks these cells, inserting its genetic material and using the cells to create copies of itself, therefore increasing the viral load of HIV within the body. An increased viral load results in an impaired immune system that cannot effectively combat common illnesses or opportunistic infections such as cancer, pneumonia or a variety of other conditions.
Infections and Cancer
When a person's immune system is compromised by HIV or AIDS, he is susceptible to bacterial, viral and fungal infections as well as more advanced infections such as certain cancers. Bacterial infections can include pneumonias, tuberculosis or salmonella. Viral infections can include cytomegalovirus, herpes, hepatitis or a brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Common fungal infections are candidiasis or cryptococcal meningitis. Kaposi’s sarcoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are cancers that can be related to the progression of HIV.
Psychological Effects
Because of the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS, patients may experience psychological effects related to being diagnosed with these conditions. Disclosure issues and feelings of guilt, anger, anxiety and depression may surface as a result of an HIV or AIDS diagnosis. Accessing available support systems, case managers within the community and referrals for professional counselors or psychiatrists may be necessary for patients to deal with living with HIV or AIDS.
Lifestyle Changes
Having an HIV infection can affect a person’s lifestyle in different ways. Adhering to any HIV medications that a doctor prescribes is important because noncompliance can lead the body to become resistant to these medications. Because medications have specific scheduling and side effects, patients may need to change their lifestyles to accommodate the regimen. In addition, regular follow-up appointments with a doctor and blood work are necessary to monitor progress and disease progression. Patients need to work closely with their doctors to determine the treatment regimen that will work best for long-term treatment of HIV and AIDS. Developing a healthy lifestyle that includes eating right and regular exercise is also important to maintaining overall health.
