AIDS

AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: A - Acquired.

This condition is acquired, meaning that a person becomes infected
with it. I-Immuno. HIV affects a person's immune system, the part of
the body that fights off germs such as bacteria or viruses
History of AIDS
Scientists have traced the origin of HIV back to chimpanzees
and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), an HIV-like virus
that attacks the immune system of monkeys and apes
HIV and AIDS: what’s the connection?
To develop AIDS a person has to have contracted HIV. But
having HIV doesn’t necessarily mean that someone will
develop AIDS.
Stages of HIV
 Acute HIV Infection
 Chronic HIV Infection
 Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Symptoms of AIDS can include:
 Rapid weight loss
 Recurring fever or profuse night sweats
 Extreme and unexplained tiredness
 Sores of the mouth, anus, or genitals
 Pneumonia

 Memory loss, depression, and other neurologic disorders

 Causes of Aids
 Most people get the virus by having unprotected sex with
someone who has HIV.
 Another common way of getting it is by sharing drug needles
with someone who is infected with HIV.
 The virus can also be passed from a mother to her baby during
pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.
The Psychological Impact of HIV
When one is tested positive for HIV, one can think that the whole world
has ended and that there is no hope for the future, whilst others see it as
stepping stone to a better life. It is true that with the correct care and
support, living with HIV can be made easier. However without this, the
results can be catastrophic. One of the reasons for this is that emotional
and mental stress experienced by people living with HIV (PLHIV) can
cause different types of psychological problems.
Counti.....
 Mental Illness
 Depression
 Fear and Isolation
 Stigma and Discrimination
Treatments And Therapies
The HIV virus is treated using a combination of medicines called
antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART has come a long way over the years
and by starting these drugs as soon as you are diagnosed, you will
improve and protect your health and protect your sex partners. Starting
antiretroviral therapy can affect a person’s mental health in different
ways.

You may find that beginning treatment and knowing that you can slow
the progression of the virus relieves some symptoms of anxiety and
depression and gives you a sense of control over your health. Taking this
positive step may improve your feelings about yourself and the future.
Other Ways To Help Yourself
 Get involved with a support group.

 Spend time with encouraging people, such as family members

and friends and talk about your feelings.

 Eat small, healthy meals throughout the day; limit the amount of

caffeine you consume.

 Get enough sleep each night to help you feel rested.