HIV Treatment in South Delhi

1. Understanding HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (also known as T cells), which play a crucial role in helping the body fight off infections. HIV weakens the immune system over time, making it harder for the body to fend off infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. HIV is transmitted through certain bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The most common modes of HIV transmission include: Unprotected sexual contact: HIV can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person, particularly if there are open sores, cuts, or mucous membrane (such as in the mouth or genitals) that come into contact with infected bodily fluids. Sharing needles or syringes: HIV can be transmitted through sharing needles or syringes contaminated with the blood of an infected person, such as in the context of intravenous drug use. Mother-to-child transmission: HIV can be passed from an HIV-positive mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. For HIV prevention Get Pep Treatment in Delhi within 72 Hours after exposure which is offered by Dr. Vinod Raina, HIV Specialist. Once the virus enters the body, it begins to replicate and attack CD4 cells, gradually weakening the immune system. HIV infection progresses through several stages: Acute HIV infection: In the first few weeks after infection, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and rash. However, some people may not experience any symptoms at this stage. Clinical latency (chronic HIV infection): After the initial stage, HIV enters a period of clinical latency, where the virus continues to replicate at low levels but

2. may not cause any symptoms. Without treatment, this stage can last for many years, but the virus is still active and can be transmitted to others. AIDS: Without treatment, HIV infection eventually progresses to AIDS, which is characterized by severe immune deficiency and the development of opportunistic infections (infections that occur more frequently or are more severe in individuals with weakened immune systems). AIDS is diagnosed when the CD4 cell count falls below a certain threshold, or when an individual develops one or more AIDS- defining illnesses. Treatment for HIV involves antiretroviral therapy (ART), which consists of a combination of medications that suppress the replication of the virus, allowing the immune system to recover and preventing the progression of HIV to AIDS. With effective treatment, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives, and the risk of transmitting the virus to others can be greatly reduced. Additionally, strategies such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep) and post- exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can help prevent HIV transmission in high-risk individuals. Dr. Vinod Raina, HIV Specialist in Delhi Address: E-34 Ekta Apartment Saket, New Delhi-110017 Contact: 9136363692, 9871605858