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What is AIDS?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus which attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting cells called CD4 cells or T-helper cells. These cells are important for fighting infections. If HIV is not treated, it can degrade the immune system to the point where it can not defend the body from diseases and infections. This advanced stage of HIV infection is called AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

Stages of HIV

There are several stages of HIV:
Acute HIV Infections: This is the first stage which starts 2 to 4 weeks following the infection. People generally develop flu-like symptoms like fever, headache and sore throat, which are generally mild and easy to dismiss. Still, the viral load (amount of virus in the bloodstream) is high at this stage, making the individual extremely contagious.
Chronic HIV Infection: Known as clinical latency, this stage may last for many years during which the virus is still active but reproduction is at very low levels. People may not have any noticeable symptoms during this time. Without treatment, this stage could last for ten years or even more, but with antiretroviral therapy, people can stay in this stage for life,
AIDS: If HIV is not treated, it might advance to AIDS, the most severe phase of HIV infection. Individuals with AIDS have a severely damaged immune system and are vulnerable to opportunistic infections or cancers which a strong immune system might protect against. AIDS is diagnosed when the CD4 T cell count falls under 200 cells per cubic millimetre of blood or when some opportunistic infections occur.

Difference Between HIV and AIDS

The main difference between HIV and AIDS is that HIV is the virus that causes the infection, while AIDS is the condition which signifies the last stage of the infection where the immune system is considerably damaged. Not all HIV patients progress to AIDS, especially those who receive treatment.

Common Causes of HIV AIDS

HIV/AIDS is primarily contracted through certain high-risk behaviours that expose individuals to the HIV virus. It is important to note that HIV can not be transmitted by shaking hands, hugging or sharing items like dishes or toilet seats. A misconception about these transmission methods may create unnecessary stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. Knowing the actual modes of transmission may aid in preventing the risk of this deadly infection.

The most common causes of HIV AIDS are:

Unprotected Sexual Contact: HIV could be transmitted by way of anal, oral or vaginal sex with an infected partner, especially if no condoms are used. The virus gets into the body via tiny cuts and tears in the mucous membranes or skin.
Needle Sharing: Using syringes or needles that have been used by another person who is infected with HIV is another risk factor for spreading the HIV infection. This happens frequently among people who inject drugs.
Blood Transfusions/Organ Transplants: Even though rare in countries where blood is screened for HIV, receiving HIV-infected blood products or organs can lead to transmission.
From Mother to Child: A mother could transfer the virus to her child during pregnancy, birth or even while breastfeeding. The transmission rate from mother to child may be high, without effective treatment.
Accidental Needle Sticks: This is primarily a risk for healthcare workers. Being accidentally pricked with a needle used on an HIV-positive patient can cause transmission.

HIV Viral Load and CD4 Count: What Do They Mean?

Two key markers are used to monitor HIV:

Viral Load

This measures the amount of HIV in the blood.

• A high viral load indicates active viral replication.
  
• An undetectable viral load (achieved through ART) means the virus is effectively suppressed.

CD4 Count

CD4 cells are white blood cells essential for immune defence.

• A normal CD4 count ranges from 500 to 1,500 cells per cubic millimetre.
  
• A CD4 count below 200 indicates severe immune damage and is one criterion for diagnosing AIDS.
  
  

Monitoring both values helps doctors assess treatment effectiveness and immune health.

HIV and Pregnancy

With proper treatment, women living with HIV can have healthy pregnancies and HIV-negative babies.

Without treatment, HIV can be transmitted:

• During pregnancy
  
• During labour and delivery
  
• Through breastfeeding
  

However, with antiretroviral therapy and appropriate medical care, the risk of mother-to-child transmission can be reduced to below 1%.

Signs and Symptoms of HIV AIDS

Recognising the signs and symptoms of HIV early may facilitate timely treatment and improve health outcomes. The HIV AIDS symptoms vary considerably and can be influenced by the stage of the virus and individual health.

The most noticeable HIV AIDS symptoms are: