Understanding the Progression of HIV Infection
Learn about the stages of HIV infection, from initial acute symptoms to progression into AIDS. Early testing and treatment are crucial to maintaining health and extending lifespan. Understand the progression to better prevent and manage HIV effectively.
Progression of HIV Infection
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a dangerous virus that targets the immune system by attacking CD-4 cells, making the body highly susceptible to other illnesses. Without prompt treatment, HIV can lead to life-threatening conditions, primarily due to other diseases rather than the virus itself.
The development of HIV occurs in three distinct stages:
Initial Stage: Acute HIV Infection
After entering the bloodstream, HIV quickly infects and destroys lymphocytes, often going unnoticed for weeks. Early symptoms may mimic the flu, including high fever, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Many individuals remain unaware of their infection during this phase.
The second stage, known as the Chronic Phase, occurs when HIV continues to attack and reduce CD-4 cells gradually. Although symptoms may cease after the initial flu-like presentation, the virus remains active, quietly weakening the immune system over nearly a decade if left untreated.
The final stage, called Progression to AIDS, is marked by a CD-4 count dropping below 200. At this point, the immune system is severely compromised, leading to persistent fatigue, night sweats, prolonged fevers, severe diarrhea, skin issues, and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections like pneumonia and certain cancers such as Kaposi's sarcoma. Without treatment, survival after this stage averages around four years, but with proper care, individuals can live longer and healthier.
Timely testing and immediate treatment initiation are vital in managing HIV and preventing progression to AIDS. Early detection enables better health outcomes and prolongs life expectancy.
