HIV is an auto-immune virus that weakens the body's immune system. It destroys the defenses that make it possible for the body to fight off bacterial and viral infections. HIV may be transmitted through sexual contact or through contact with blood. It can also be passed between drug users who share needles. There is no cure for HIV, but the symptoms can be treated, and in some cases, the progression of the disease may be halted or slowed considerably with medications and other treatments.
Medications
Medications that are used for the treatment and prevention of the HIV virus are known as anti-retroviral medications. Anti-retroviral medications stop the growth of the virus and keep it from replicating itself. These drugs are separated into seven classifications. These medications can only be obtained through a physician and should only be taken under a doctor's strict supervision. The use of these medications is to suppress as many of the symptoms of the virus as possible for the longest amount of time. It is hoped that suppressing the symptoms will increase quality of life as well as allowing the chance for other treatments to offer benefits.
Combination therapy is the practice of using two anti-retroviral medications at the same time.
Diet and Nutrition
Eating healthy foods is one of the best ways to ensure that the body is getting the nutrients it needs. When a person's immune system is compromised, the need for nutrients is increased. Incorporating fresh, raw foods into the diet is one way of increasing the nutrient content of the diet. The more foods are processed, the more nutrients they lose. Foods that are rich in vitamin C are needed to give the immune system an extra boost. Oranges, tomatoes and pineapples are a high in vitamin C and can eaten raw or juiced for convenience. Fish and chicken provide protein and can be broiled or baked to reduce the risk of adding extra cholesterol to the diet. Avoid processed foods or foods with lots of sugar and additives. Processing reduces the foods nutrient content and additives can put stress on the liver and further compromise the immune system.
Herbal Remedies
According to Life Positive, herbs such as astragalus and ginseng can strengthen the upper respiratory system and help fight infection in the lungs and sinuses. Echinacea and ginkgo may also add support to the immune system by fighting off bacterial infections. Chinese health professionals may use a combination of herbs and other alternative therapies to provide treatment that will enhance the quality of life. Combinations of herbs include echinacea, goldenseal and astragalus. Alternative treatments that may be introduced along with the herbs are massage, acupuncture, and meditation.
References
- Family Doctor: Treatments of HIV
- Mayo Clinic: Treatments of HIV/AIDS
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Balch; 2006
- Life Positive: Herbal Remedies for HIV
