Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) often go hand-in-hand. However, HIV is a virus, and AIDS is a disease.

HIV

HIV is a virus that destroys the T-cells, which help your body fight off infections. Without an adequate supply of T-cells, you’re more vulnerable to infections and developing certain types of cancer.

AIDS

AIDS is a disease caused by HIV. It’s the final stage of the infection, weakening your immune system to the point that it can no longer it’s no longer able to protect you from illness. Not everyone with HIV gets AIDS.

You may have flu-like symptoms during your initial HIV infection. These symptoms come and go over a 2two- to 4four- week period. Acute HIV infection symptoms include:

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Chills

• Night sweats

• Muscle aches

• Sore throat

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Mouth ulcers

When left untreated, your acute HIV turns into a chronic HIV infection. You may not have any symptoms during the chronic stage of the infection as the virus slowly destroys your immune system. The HIV infection then progresses to AIDS, leading to opportunistic infections (OIs). OIs are severe or frequent infections in people with immunodeficiency.

You should get tested for HIV/AIDS if you have flu-like symptoms or concerns about HIV because of sexual activity or drug use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends you get tested for HIV at least once during your lifetime. You may benefit from yearly testing if you engage in activities that increase your risk of contracting HIV, such as:

• Men having sex with men

• Having anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV

• Having multiple sexual partners

• Sharing needles or syringes

• History of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

• History of hepatitis C or tuberculosis

The Pineapple Healthcare team performs routine HIV testing on all patients.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the primary treatment for HIV. ART manages the HIV infection and reduces the risk of spreading it to other people. It includes a combination of pills that keep blood levels of HIV low or undetectable, slowing the damage to your immune system. You can live a long, healthy, and active life with HIV and ART. The team at Pineapple Healthcare are HIV/AIDS care specialists who can make ensure you get the tests and treatment you need. They also provide pre-exposure prophylactic (PrEP), which can reduce your chances of contracting HIV if you engage in activities that put you at risk. Don’t wait. Call Pineapple Healthcare or schedule your HIV/AIDS consultation online today.