Chronic HIV Infection: What to Know

What is chronic HIV infection?

Chronic HIV infection is a lifelong condition in which the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains in the body. Without treatment, HIV can severely damage the immune system and lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

How is chronic HIV infection treated?

There is no cure for chronic HIV infection, but there are effective treatments that can suppress the virus and prevent it from progressing to AIDS. These treatments, known as antiretroviral therapy (ART), involve taking a combination of medications to target different stages of the HIV life cycle. ART can reduce the amount of HIV in the body (viral load) to undetectable levels, which helps to keep the immune system healthy and prevent the development of complications.

What are the different stages of chronic HIV infection?

The course of chronic HIV infection can be divided into three stages:

* Acute HIV infection: This is the earliest stage of infection, which typically occurs within 2 to 4 weeks after exposure to HIV. Symptoms may include fever, rash, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.

* Chronic HIV infection: This stage can last for many years, and symptoms may come and go. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, and diarrhea.

* AIDS: This is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, and it occurs when the immune system is severely damaged. People with AIDS are at risk of developing serious infections and other complications, such as cancer.

Can chronic HIV infection be prevented?

There is no vaccine to prevent HIV infection, but there are several ways to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus, including:

* Using condoms: Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV transmission during sex.

* Getting tested for HIV: Regular HIV testing is important for early diagnosis and treatment, which can help to prevent the progression of the disease.

* Practicing safe injection: If you inject drugs, always use new, sterile needles and syringes.

* Avoiding contact with infected blood: Do not share needles or other drug paraphernalia, and avoid contact with open wounds or bleeding.

How is chronic HIV infection diagnosed?

Chronic HIV infection is diagnosed with a blood test that detects the presence of HIV antibodies. If the antibody test is positive, a second test called a viral load test will be performed to measure the amount of HIV in the blood.

What are the life expectancy and complications of chronic HIV infection?

With proper medical care, people with chronic HIV infection can live long, healthy lives. The life expectancy of someone with HIV is now similar to that of someone without the virus.

However, HIV can cause several complications, including:

* Opportunistic infections: These are infections that take advantage of a weakened immune system. Common opportunistic infections include Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and thrush.

* Non-Hodgkin lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that develops in the lymph nodes.

* Kaposi's sarcoma: This is a type of cancer that develops in the skin, lymph nodes, and other organs.

* HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND): These are a group of conditions that affect the brain and nervous system.

How can chronic HIV infection be managed?

There are several things that people with chronic HIV infection can do to manage their condition, including:

* Taking ART medication: ART is the most important way to manage HIV infection. ART can suppress the virus and prevent it from progressing to AIDS.

* Getting regular medical care: Regular medical care is important for monitoring the progression of HIV infection and for preventing and treating complications.

* Practicing healthy behaviors: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can help to keep the immune system healthy and prevent the development of complications.

* Reducing stress: Stress can weaken the immune system and make it more difficult to fight off infections. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation, can help to keep the immune system healthy.