What Are the Complications & Risks of AIDS / HIV?

AIDS / HIV Overview Symptoms Complications & Risks Testing & Diagnosis Treatment Do I Have AIDS / HIV?

Complications

HIV, especially if left untreated, leaves a person vulnerable to a host of infections:

Bacterial
  • Bacterial pneumonia
  • Mycobacterium aviumcomplex (MAC)
  • Tuberculosis (TB)
  • Salmonellosis
  • Bacillary angiomatosis
Viral
Fungal
  • Candidiasis
  • Cryptococcal meningitis
Parasitic
  • Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP)
  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Cryptosporidiosis
Cancer
  • Kaposi's sarcoma
  • Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Other complications
  • Wasting syndrome
  • Neurological complications

Get tested for HIV / AIDS

STD testing is the only way to know for sure if you do or do not have an STD. Act immediately and get tested today!

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Partners and Re-infection

It is imperative that your partner(s) be informed of your HIV status (and in some places you have a legal responsibility to do so) so they can be tested. To avoid spreading the virus to others, safe sex must be practiced at all times, for all types of intercourse.

Quick snapshot

Can it be cured?

No. Viruses don't have cures, but symptoms can be controlled with proper treatment.

Type of Infection

Viral. AIDS is caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus).

How is it treated?

Antiviral Medication. HIV/AIDS is treated with a variety of antiviral medications: fusion inhibitors, protease inhibitors and RT inhibitors are the most common.

Recovery Time

AIDS / HIV is Incurable. HIV/AIDS is incurable; as such treatment is aimed at slowing progression and treating symptoms.

Can I have sex?

Yes. Partners should be informed of your condition and condoms/dams should be used consistently.

Can I get re-infected?

No. HIV is incurable; once you are infected, you will carry the disease with your for life.