HIV/AIDS is one of the significant challenges faced by the world today. Though the medication has improved, and awareness has been spread, it is still crucial to understand the causes and symptoms of HIV/AIDS.
HISTORY OF HIV/AIDS
AIDS was first detected in US in 1981 in a gay couple by the scientists of US. Later it became a major concern in 1983 when a lot of people were diagnosed with this so called “new disease”. Medical facilities at that time were still new to the disease and the lack of treatment caused many deaths of the infected people.
WHAT IS HIV?
HIV is also known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which is a sexually transmitted virus. It weakens the immune system of an individual making it incapable to fight against the infections or other health conditions.
WHAT IS AIDS?
AIDS is also known as AQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME. It is the last stage of HIV where the immune system of a person becomes so weak that it becomes impossible to fight the smallest of infections making the person vulnerable. However, it is not compulsory that everyone with HIV is going to get AIDS. With a proper medical care at the earliest stage, HIV can be managed.
CAUSES OF HIV/AIDS
Unprotected sex: HIV/AIDS is caused by unprotected sex, irrelevant of their gender. Though this might be the major cause of getting HIV/AIDS, its transmission can be done through many other ways. People with HIV can also transmit diseases by having unprotected anal or oral sex.
Used syringes/needles: Using same syringes or needles can also transmit the virus. Accidental cuts by the syringes can also affect the person.
Blood transfusion: Transfusing blood from one person to other can also spread or transmit HIV/AIDS. It is always important to run some tests before donating or transfusing blood from one person to another.
Through pregnancy: If the pregnant mother has HIV then this disease will pass on to the infant.
SYMPTOMS OF HIV/AIDS
- Fevers
- Rashes
- weight loss
- chills
- sore throat
- muscle ache
MYTHS ABOUT HIV/AIDS
HIV is a death sentence: People often think that having HIV/AIDS can cause death, but it’s just a misconception. Though this can be a serious issue it is still manageable with right treatment.
HIV can spread by physical touch: This is absolutely a false statement as it is only transmitted through a sexual contact.
It can spread through a kiss: It is yet another misconception as it is safe to kiss a person with HIV. It is a huge misbelief that HIV can spread through saliva.
Though HIV/AIDS can be a serious problem, it can still be managed with some medications and treatments.
ALSO VISIT: SOAR THROAT CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS
REFERENCE: CLEVELAND CLINIC