What is HIV and AIDS?
Author : Gautam Ayurvedaas | Published On : 11 Apr 2024
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus which attacks anti-infection cells in the human body or simply a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells. A person infected by HIV becomes a very easy target for other infections and diseases. It spreads in the body for various reasons like bodily fluids of an Infected person, unprotected sex (sex without using protection), or by sharing infected injections and needles. Mostly it falls under Sexually Transmitted Diseases, still, it is possible for someone to catch HIV without having penetrative sex or vaginal sex. Consulting a Sexologist doctor or health professional is recommended if someone addresses the symptoms of HIV because with their help it can be controlled before it gets worse.
REMINDER: HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food or drinks.
How many types of HIV are there:
There are mainly two types of Human Immunodeficiency Virus. They are:
HIV-1: HIV-1 is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. It spreads through specific bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. HIV-1 is the most common type of HIV worldwide and can lead to AIDS if left untreated. It is the most common trusted Source type of HIV, and it occurs all over the world. According to the HIV awareness charity Avert, around 95% of people living with HIV have HIV-1.
HIV-2: HIV-2 is a type of virus that attacks the immune system, similar to HIV-1. It's primarily found in West Africa and progresses more slowly to AIDS than HIV-1. Though less easily transmitted, it still poses serious health risks and requires testing and treatment. HIV-2 is mainly present in West Africa, but it is slowly starting to appear in other regions, including the United States, Europe, and India.
What are AIDs?
AIDS (Acquired-Immunodeficiency-Syndrome) is the advanced stage of HIV infection where the immune system is extremely weak, making individuals more open to deadly infections and certain cancers. HIV leads to AIDS if it is not treated in time.
Symptoms:
Fever
Rash
Heavy sweating at Night time
Sore throat
Fatigue
Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week
Muscle aches
Rapid weight loss
Extremely unexplained tiredness
Sores of the mouth, anus, or genitals
Pneumonia
Memory loss or other neurologic disorders
What are the causes of HIV:
Unprotected Sex
bodily fluids of an infected person
Sharing Needles or Syringes
Mother-to-Child Transmission during birth
Blood Transfusion or Organ Transplant
Prevention:
Practice safe sex
Limit sexual partners
Consult with a sexologist doctor
Avoid sharing needles
Precaution measures for medical procedures:
Seek early treatment if detected
Spread awareness and education
No cure for HIV:
As of now, there is no cure for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). However, with effective treatment and management, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. But you can control it with different HIV treatments available nowadays.
How an Ayurvedic Sexologist can help you to control HIV:
An Ayurvedic sexologist doctor plays a vital part in controlling the spread of HIV and improving the quality of life for patients affected by HIV.
Recommends Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic sexologists may recommend specific herbal formulations that are believed to boost the immune system and support overall health. These herbal remedies can include ingredients like ashwagandha, guduchi, and neem, which are known to boost our immune system.
Dietary Recommendations: Ayurvedic practitioners emphasize the importance of a balanced diet to support overall health and immunity. They may provide dietary guidance customized to personal needs and strengthen the body's natural defenses against infections, including HIV.
Lifestyle Modifications: They also suggest lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction techniques, and regular exercise to promote overall well-being. Stress management is particularly important because stress can weaken the immune system and increase the chances of HIV infection.
Yoga and Meditation: Practicing yoga asanas and pranayama can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and support immune function, which may benefit individuals with HIV.
Education and Counseling: Sexologist doctors provide exact and authentic information about HIV transmission and prevention methods through educational programs and counseling sessions. They help individuals understand how to protect themselves and others from HIV transmission through safer sex practices, condom use, and harm reduction strategies.
