Our health is one of the important things that determine our existence and long life. We need to make sure that we protect ourselves from any disease, especially the ones that are transmitted through physical intimacy.
According to Healthline, below are some things you need to know about HIV:
1. HIV is a virus that damages the glycoprotein that is found primarily on the surface of helper T cells known as CD4. It is a receptor for HIV in our bodies. When these cells are affected, the body’s immune system is weakened.
When this virus damages these cells in the body, the victim will develop several conditions, such as cancer.
2. HIV cannot be transmitted through the air or physical contact; people become infected through seminal fluid, blood, and any sharp objects. A baby can also be infected by breast milk.
Scientists have not yet discovered a permanent cure for HIV because it enters the DNA and breaks down the cells. Those who are infected can only use drugs that act in the body to fight retroviruses.
These drugs are called antiretroviral drugs. This can help them live with HIV for a long time.
3. Someone who is HIV positive and doesn’t take proper care of their health will have acquired immune deficiency syndrome, popularly called AIDS.
When it gets to this stage, the immune system in the body has become powerless in fighting against any other infectious diseases.
The person is susceptible to having tuberculosis, throat, mouth, and brain infections. The victim can also have their intestines infected with parasites.
4. The life expectancy for someone living with AIDS is about three years.
However, if the person is using antiretroviral drugs, they can live for many years. The person can even live as long as someone who has not been infected.
5. Some people are living with AIDS, while some already have the virus and don’t even know it. However, the virus can cause evident changes in the victim’s body.
AIDS is an advanced condition of HIV, and someone living with HIV may not necessarily have AIDS if they take proper care of their health.
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