Natasha Rahman highlights 5 things you should know about AIDS which will help you cope better with it.
World AIDS day, held on December 1 is a scope for people, all over the world, to come together and fight against HIV, support those living with it and to commemorate families’ who have lost their loved ones to AIDS. Being an epidemic that has affected over 35 million people around the world, there still is a lack of sound knowledge about AIDS.
Difference between HIV and AIDS
If you are HIV positive, it doesn’t naturally mean you will have AIDS. HIV is the virus which causes AIDS, so if you are affected by HIV, you can still fight it with regular medical checkups and a sound immune system. This may prevent your chances of developing AIDS. So when you get a HIV-positive test, don’t fret too much. You are only HIV positive, and that’s that.
What does not cause HIV
You cannot transmit HIV by hugging people, holding hands or kissing. HIV can only be transmitted when fluids from the infected person passes through the mucous membranes, open cuts and sores to a person. Blood, breast milk, vaginal and rectal secretions are amongst some of those fluids. You also can’t contract the disease by coming into contact with objects like dishes, toilet seats, chairs and doorknobs. Let’s not make the disease more stressful.
Sexual intercourse fights diseases
Doctors usually recommend people to continue to have sex. Orgasms will help you sleep better, rev up your immunoglobulin levels (which fights infections), and reduces overall stress. Worried about your partner? Protect them by wearing condoms, serosorting and keeping your viral load undetectable.
Open up to your doctor
When it comes to dental checkup, many people hesitate to tell their doctors their condition. Due to the viral illness, patients may be affected by fever blisters, oral candidiasis, and tooth decay. Be honest about your condition so they can examine you better. Health professionals are trained to look for certain symptoms, hence don’t be shy to tell them as it’s in your best interest that’s kept in mind.
Monitor your body
Even if you are going for regular checkups, it’s good to be cautious about your body. Issues like diarrhea, weight loss, white patches around the mouth, shortness of breath and a blurred vision is something you should look out for. Usually, with regular checkups and healthy eating, these are passing phases but it’s good to keep a track of your body’s signals in case it develops into a serious issue. Another thing to keep in mind is, that medicines work differently on different people. If you go through any side effects which last more than ten days, do not put up with it. Consult your doctor immediately.