According to the Mayo Clinic, 39.5 million people in the world are infected with HIV. Because the disorder damages the immune system's ability to defend against disease-causing pathogens, AIDS patients can suffer from opportunistic infections that do not cause problems in people with a more competent immune system. AIDS or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome can occur in the later stages of HIV infection. Advances in treatment of HIV help to prevent or delay the onset of AIDS and common opportunistic infections.
Pneumocystis Pneumonia
According to The Body, 85% of persons with HIV develop pneumocystis pneumonia. This serious lung infection is caused by a fungus. Preventive medicines such as antibiotics are available for persons with HIV who are at risk. In addition, medications used to treat HIV, antiretroviral therapy, help to boost the immune system, making patients less susceptible to this infection. The symptoms of pneumocystis pneumonia include fever, shortness of breath, coughing, and weight loss.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis, also called thrush, is caused by a fungus as well. This can affect the mouth and esophagus, or it can be a vaginal infection. If it is in the mouth, white patches may be visible. If it is in the vaginal area, there may be discharge, itching and burning. This is a common infection in persons with HIV. Although effective treatments are available to treat candidiasis, immunocompromised persons may have more persistent infections, according to The Body.
Mycobacterium Avium Complex
Mycobacterium avium complex is a bacteria commonly found in the soil, water, dust and food. According to The Body, the lungs, intestines, bone marrow, liver and spleen are the organs that can be involved if there is an infection in one with AIDS. The Body reports symptoms of MAC are high fevers, chills, diarrhea, weight loss, stomach aches, fatigue and anemia. Medications are available both to treat MAC and to prevent it, depending on a person's condition.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite. This parasite is found in cat feces, raw vegetables and soil. It can be very dangerous, sometimes infecting the brain and leading to encephalitis, or it can involve other parts of the body. According to The Body, symptoms include fever, confusion, headache, disorientation, personality changes and tremor, and seizures. Medications can treat this infection. Ways to prevent toxoplasmosis include not maintaining a kitty litter box and eating thoroughly cooked meat and fish. Medications to help prevent future infection are available as well.
