Exploring the Negative Effects of HIV on the Body

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HIV causes skin rashes, cardiovascular diseases and digestion issues in the body.

FREMONT, CA: HIV damages the immune system, making it more difficult to fight off infections. As the virus weakens the natural defenses, individuals may see symptoms throughout their bodies. However, if patients begin antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications early in their HIV infection, they may avoid the majority of these complications. These medicines may also cause certain negative effects. The patients may need to keep an eye out for issues and take steps to prevent or diminish them.

Effects of HIV on the body

HIV's effects on the immune system: The immune system contains various white blood cells that fight illnesses. HIV enters CD4 cells and produces copies of itself. The virus ruins the cell, and the new viruses spread to infect additional cells.

The body replies by producing additional CD4 cells, but it eventually fails to keep up with the virus, weakening the immune system. Individuals are more prone to becoming ill, even from common infections. Infections stay longer, are more severe, and may return more frequently. If patients follow their doctor's instructions for ART, it eliminates HIV, preventing it from infecting more CD4 cells and weakening their immune system.

HIV's effects on the circulatory system: Various factors increase the risk of developing heart problems. Because HIV affects the immune system, the body will become inflamed as it attempts to combat the infection, as if it were on a constant simmer. This type of inflammation has been connected to cardiac diseases. Some HIV medications may raise the risk of heart disease. They can induce insulin resistance, increasing one's risk of developing diabetes, as well as difficulty breaking down fats. Diabetes, in turn, boosts the risk of heart disease. Individuals may require medications to regulate their blood sugar and cholesterol.

Eating various vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods is necessary. It is advised to choose lean meat cuts and low-fat dairy products. Spending 20 to 30 minutes exercising, such as taking a quick walk most days of the week, is crucial.

HIV's effects on the eyes: Some eye disorders are minor, while others are severe enough to cause blindness. Some of the most prevalent include infections that cause bleeding in the retina and retinal detachment. Approximately 7 out of 10 persons with untreated AIDS will experience AIDS-related eye problems, the majority of which are caused by cytomegalovirus. Individuals may not notice any signs until the condition has progressed; therefore, if someone has advanced HIV, they should undergo regular eye examinations. If people need to adjust their vision, calling their doctor is required.