Can HIV infect the nervous system?

Yes, HIV can infect the nervous system. The virus can enter the nervous system through infected white blood cells called macrophages. Once in the nervous system, HIV can infect and damage nerve cells, leading to a variety of neurological disorders, including HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND).

HAND is a group of conditions that affect the brain and spinal cord of people with HIV. HAND can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

* Memory problems

* Difficulty thinking

* Problems with concentration

* Changes in mood or behavior

* Headaches

* Seizures

* Muscle weakness

* Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

HAND is a serious condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There is no cure for HAND, but there are treatments that can help to slow the progression of the disease and manage the symptoms.

In addition to HAND, HIV can also cause other neurological disorders, such as:

* HIV-associated dementia

* Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)

* Cryptococcal meningitis

* Toxoplasmosis encephalitis

These disorders are all serious and can be life-threatening. If you are living with HIV, it is important to see your doctor regularly to monitor your neurological health.