How can HIV positive people stay healthy and prevent AIDS?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 25-year-old male who was diagnosed with HIV a week back. I feel very depressed after hearing this. Now, I am taking antiretroviral drugs and multivitamins. Now, my problem is I sweat a lot at night. I started having this symptom after having sex with a sex worker when I went on a trip. Can I know how HIV affects the immune system? What steps can be taken to protect my health and prevent the progression of HIV to AIDS? People are treating me very differently as an untouchable one. Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

First and foremost thing is, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) does not spread through dry surfaces, by touching, hugging, and sitting together. Viruses spread through bodily fluids such as seminal fluid, vaginal fluid, saliva, blood-to-blood contact, and inside body fluids. As the virus is mainly concentrated in the seminal fluid and reproductive tract, it is most commonly spread through sexual acts. This HIV is an RNA (ribonucleic acid) virus. It affects our immune system cells which are responsible for immunity. Antiretroviral drugs help in a big way in prolonging the life span which is a good sign. As the virus destroys immune cells a person is more prone to common infections like frequent colds, coughs, throat infections, fungal infections, and loose motions only when the total blood count reduces very significantly than the normal range. So staying well protected, having hygiene, eating a healthy diet, washing hands, using sanitizer, and wearing a mask helps a lot.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.