This article provides an overview of HIV, including its causes, symptoms, transmission methods, and modern treatment options. It emphasizes the importance of awareness and early diagnosis to manage the virus effectively and prevent progression to AIDS.

HIV Awareness: Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Management

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) targets specific body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. If not treated, it can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV weakens the immune system by attacking CD4 cells, increasing susceptibility to infections. The virus spreads mainly through unprotected sex, contaminated blood products, shared needles, and maternal transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. There are two significant strains: HIV-1 and HIV-2, with HIV-1 being the most common. HIV is not spread through casual contact, saliva, tears, or sweat.

How HIV Spreads

The virus damages immune defenses by lowering CD4 T cell levels.

Exposure to infected bodily fluids during unprotected sexual activity increases risk.

Blood transfusions without proper screening can transmit HIV.

Sharing contaminated needles with an infected person poses a significant threat.

Vertical transmission from mother to infant can occur during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.

Signs and Symptoms of HIV Infection

Initial symptoms often resemble flu, including fever, headaches, sore throat, and rashes.

Muscle aches, joint pain, and overall fatigue may develop.

Oral sores and persistent diarrhea are common.

Unexplained weight loss and reduced appetite are warning signs.

Mouth and tongue lesions become visible.

Persistent swollen lymph nodes are typical indicators.

Current Treatment Approaches

Protease inhibitors target viral enzymes essential for replication.

Entry inhibitors block the fusion of the virus with host cells.

Integrase inhibitors prevent viral DNA integration into the host genome.

Reverse transcriptase inhibitors hinder the replication process.

Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) help stop viral multiplication.