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Understanding AIDS: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, which severely weakens the immune system and is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, contaminated blood transfusions, and from mother to child. While there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy can help manage the disease, and prevention strategies include safe sex practices and regular testing.

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13 views3 pages

Understanding AIDS: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, which severely weakens the immune system and is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, contaminated blood transfusions, and from mother to child. While there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy can help manage the disease, and prevention strategies include safe sex practices and regular testing.

Uploaded by

meenaksi223
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

1. Introduction

AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. It is the final stage of infection with the Human

Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It severely weakens the immune system, leaving individuals vulnerable to

infections and certain cancers.

2. Cause

AIDS is caused by HIV, a virus that targets and destroys CD4 (T-helper) cells, which play a crucial role in

maintaining a functional immune system.

3. Modes of Transmission

- Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person

- Sharing needles or syringes

- Receiving contaminated blood transfusions

- From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding

4. Stages of HIV Infection

a. Acute HIV Infection: Flu-like symptoms appear 2-4 weeks after infection.

b. Clinical Latency Stage: HIV reproduces at low levels, often without symptoms.

c. AIDS: Final and most severe stage. CD4 count falls below 200 cells/mm³ and opportunistic infections

occur.

5. Symptoms of AIDS
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

- Rapid weight loss

- Frequent fevers or night sweats

- Extreme and unexplained fatigue

- Prolonged swelling of lymph glands

- Diarrhea lasting more than a week

- Sores of the mouth, anus, or genitals

- Pneumonia

- Memory loss or neurological disorders

6. Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made using HIV antibody/antigen tests (blood or saliva). CD4 count and viral load tests are also

used to monitor the disease progression.

7. Treatment

While there is no cure for AIDS, antiretroviral therapy (ART) helps control HIV. It reduces viral load, maintains

immune function, and prevents transmission.

8. Prevention

- Use condoms correctly during sex

- Get tested and know your partner's HIV status

- Avoid sharing needles

- Use PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis) if at high risk

- Ensure safe blood transfusions


Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

9. Conclusion

Awareness, early detection, and proper treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for people living

with HIV/AIDS. Prevention and education remain key strategies in reducing the spread of the virus.

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