In 2006 there were 56,300 new cases of HIV infection in the United States, according to the "5-Minute Clinical Consult" textbook. Advanced HIV infection, AIDS, took the lives of 14,627 people in 2006. HIV infection worldwide affects 32.2 million people. Treatment options are available for those infected with HIV.
HAART Therapy
Highly active antiretroviral treatment, HAART, is the combination of three or more antiretroviral medications. To decrease the viral load or amount of virus a patient has, HAART is implemented. This intense therapy protects the immune system and prevents drug resistance. Because drug resistance develops easily with the use of a single medication, triple therapy allows patients to take drugs for a longer period of time. Antiretrovirals are so called because they prevent the HIV virus from replicating. Possible combinations of therapy include: abacavir plus zidovudine plus lamivudine; or zidovudine plus lamivudine plus efavirenz.
Prophylaxis
Acquisition of an opportunistic infection, OI, or a CD4 count of less than 200 is an AIDS defining diagnosis. OIs such as cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis and pneumocystis pneumonia can be prevented. Patients' immune systems are compromised when their T-cells or CD4 counts are less than 200. Patients with intact immune systems do not get opportunistic infections. The pathogens of opportunistic infections recognize a compromised immune system and available breeding ground. Clinicians will start prophylactic therapy or preventative therapy with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, commonly known as Bactrim or Septra, as CD4 counts begin to decline. Prophylaxis with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim has been shown to reduce mortality among patients who are starting HAART therapy, according to Avert. An opportunistic infection is a signal to begin highly activated retroviral therapy.
Exercise and Nutrition
According to Tufts University, weight loss, wasting syndrome and malnutrition are common problems in HIV/AIDS patients. Poor nutrition can contribute to disease progression. To absorb the medications used in the treatment of HIV, an intact digestive system is necessary. The digestive system is maintained with good nutrition. A good diet and exercise can help stave off nausea, diarrhea, fat redistribution, high blood sugar, high blood pressure and fatigue.
References
- "5-Minute Clinical Consult, 2010." Frank J. Domino, MD, Editor. 2009
- Avert: Introduction to HIV and AIDS drug treatment
- Avert: HIV related opportunistic infections.
- Tufts University: Why is good nutrition important in HIV?
