Live Life Team
Continuation from part 6
Complications
Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP):
Bacterial infection that affects lungs is PCP; this is life threatening in case it isn’t treated properly. PCP was very common cause to death amongst HIV infected people previously when anti HIV medicines were not advanced.
Symptoms of PCP include persistent cough dry, shortness of breath, breathing difficulty and fever.
PCP symptoms need to be reported immediately as it can get worst any time. Antibiotics can treat PCP and if CD4 count goes below 200, antibiotics are given to prevent from PCP infection.
Cancer
HIV people in advanced stages are at high risk to develop cancer. As per the latest estimation any individual who is untreated and in late stage of HIV infection 100% more prone to cancer than any one without this condition. Even with treatment the chances of developing cancer is similar as to general public. Kaposi’s and lymphoma are most very common form of cancers which affect individuals with HIV. Kaposi’s sarcoma causes growth of lesions on the skin, which also affects internal organs and Lymphoma causes cancer in lymphic system.
Psychological impact of HIV
Once HIV is diagnosed, it can be very disturbing and also depressing, these are very common feelings. The HIV clinic shall provide counselling which enable you to discuss your concerns openly. Sharing and talking with other HIV infected individuals can be very helpful. The clinic shall provide all the support and information required by you.
Prevention
Safe sex
During sexual intercourse condoms must be use. This also includes anal and oral sex. It prevents you from coming in contact with any sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. Lubricants which are oil based like baby oil or Vaseline should be completely avoided as it makes the condom weak and the chances for splitting of condom are very high. K-Y jelly should be used as they are water based and are easily available in pharmacist and in supermarkets.
While performing oral sex a dental dam can be used, it’s a latex rectangular piece and fits in your mouth. Sex toys should be cleaned after every use. Practicing safe sex is always recommended even if both of you are HIV positive. As it increases a possibility to subject you to new strain of virus which medicine of anti HIV cannot control. Infecting anybody with HIV knowingly is a crime.
Intravenous drug use
Sharing of needles in case you use drug injections as it subjects to HIV virus and few other viruses which are blood borne like hepatitis C. There are numerous pharmacies and local authorities who offer exchange programme for needle, wherein used needles are exchanged to clean needles. A methadone programme is recommended if in case you use heroin. You can take methadone in liquid form as it decreases chances of getting HIV. You can consult with your drug counsellor or GP about both the programmes.
Preventing infection
If you are HIV infected person precautions should be taken to avoid yourself from exposing to infections. Steps should also be taken to boost the immune system as mentioned below:
Avoid smoking – as it weakens the immune system.
No usage of illegal drugs – as it weakens the immune system and also makes effects of anti-HIV medicines low.
Immunizations should be up to date – HIV clinic or GP shall advise you.
Eat a healthy diet – as it will boost the immune system.
Exercise regularly – as it will boost the immune system and mood.
Be careful around animals – as they are source of dangerous parasitic infections. Coming in contact with animal faeces should be avoided.
Wash hands regularly – especially going using the toilet, after and before preparing food.
