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Living with HIV

Living with HIV

Summary

What are HIV and AIDS?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It harms your immune system by destroying a type of white blood cell that helps your body fight infection. AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It is the final stage of infection with HIV. Not everyone with HIV develops AIDS.

Are there treatments for HIV/AIDS?

There is no cure, but there are many medicines to treat both HIV infection and the infections and cancers that come with it. The medicines allow people with HIV to have long, healthy lives.

How can I live a healthier life with HIV?

IIf you have HIV, you can help yourself by:

  • Getting medical care as soon as you find out that you have HIV. You should find a health care provider who has experience in treating HIV/AIDS.
  • Making sure to take your medicines regularly
  • Keeping up with your regular medical and dental care
  • Managing stress and getting support, such as from support groups, therapists, and social service organizations
  • Learning as much as you can about HIV/AIDS and its treatments
  • Trying to live a healthy lifestyle, including
    • Eating healthy foods.This can give your body the energy it needs to fight HIV and other infections. It can also help you manage HIV symptoms and medicine side effects. It may also improve absorption of your HIV medicines.
    • Exercising regularly. This can strengthen your body and immune system. It may also reduce the risk of depression.
    • Getting enough sleep. Sleep is important for your physical strength and mental health.
    • Not smoking. People with HIV who smoke have a higher risk of developing conditions such as certain cancers and infections. Smoking can also interfere with your medicines.

It is also important to reduce the risk of spreading HIV to other people. You should tell your sex partners that you have HIV and always use latex condoms. If your or your partner is allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane condoms.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

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