Understanding the Difference Between HIV and AIDS
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Symptom (AIDS) are frequently utilized interchangeably, however they aren’t the same. HIV is the virus which is the cause of AIDS that is considered to be the more serious phase in HIV infection. Knowing the distinctions between the two terms is vital to be aware, early detection, and the proper treatment.
What is HIV?
HIV is an infection that targets your immune system particularly attacking CD4 cells (T cells) that are essential to fight diseases. As time passes, if without treatment, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells, which makes it difficult to help the body combat diseases and infections. But, with the right medical care, which includes an antiretroviral regimen (ART) those suffering from HIV can live long and healthy lives, without getting AIDS.
HIV is spread by contact with specific bodily fluids, such as blood semen, vaginal fluids, semen as well as rectal fluids and breast milk. The virus is introduced into the bloodstream via mucous membranes and open cuts or through direct injection. Sexual contact without protection or sharing needles and transmission from the mother to the child during birth or breastfeeding are among the most frequent ways HIV propagates.
What is AIDS?
AIDS is the most severe phase of HIV infection. It is when the immune system is seriously damaged by the prolonged HIV activity. In this phase the body is susceptible to opportunistic infections as well as certain kinds of cancer. AIDS is identified when the person’s CD4 cells are lower than 200 cell count per millimeter blood (compared to the normal range of 500-1500) or if they contract severe infections or cancers that are that are associated with the condition.
If not treated, AIDS significantly reduces life duration, and often leads to death due to infections or illnesses that the body would normally fight. However, improvements in HIV treatment means that less people are at the stage of AIDS if they are treated timely and regular treatment.
Key Differences Between HIV and AIDS
1. HIV is an type of virus that causes AIDS, whereas AIDS is a complication
HIV is the type of virus which infects the body as well as weakens your immune system. AIDS however, in contrast is a disease that is triggered in the event that HIV has caused serious damage to the immune system. It is not the case that everyone who has HIV develops AIDS even in the event that they receive proper treatment.
2. HIV is a three-stage disease, AIDS is the last
HIV infection develops in three phases:
1. The acute HIV virus: The first stage which occurs within 2-4 weeks following exposure, is when symptoms resembling flu can be observed.
2. Chronical HIV disease: The second stage that may last for years in which the virus is present but in low amounts.
3. HIV: The third and final stage of the disease, in which your immune system becomes seriously weak, leaving the body susceptible to life-threatening illnesses.
3. HIV is manageable. AIDS can be life-threatening
With antiretroviral treatment (ART) those suffering from HIV can reduce the risk of contracting the virus and keep their immune system healthy. This treatment will stop the development of AIDS. If not treated, HIV will eventually lead to AIDS which drastically reduces the life expectancy of patients.
4. A person may be diagnosed with HIV without being diagnosed with AIDS
People who are HIV positive do not need to suffer from AIDS. If they receive the proper treatment they could endure for a long time without disease becoming AIDS. When the body’s immune system is weak does HIV progress to AIDS.
5. AIDS signs are much more serious than HIV symptoms.
HIV symptoms differ by stage, but typically are characterized by flu-like symptoms during the beginning stage, and mild infections during stages of chronic. AIDS symptoms are more severe, and can include fast weight loss and chronic illnesses and life-threatening illness.
Signs and symptoms of HIV as compared to AIDS
HIV Symptoms:
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Chest and fever
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Sore throat
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Swollen lymph nodes
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Skin itchy rash
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Fatigue
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Night sweats
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Joint pain and muscle soreness
Many people suffering from HIV might not show symptoms for many years and that’s why frequent testing is crucial.
AIDS Symptoms:
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Persistent fever
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Extreme fatigue
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Rapid weight loss
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Consistent diarrhea
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Pneumonia
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Mouth sores and Genitals
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Neurological issues (memory loss or confusion)
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Certain types of cancers such as Kaposi’s Sarcoma
Diagnosis of HIV and AIDS
HIV is diagnosed by blood tests that identify the virus as well as antibodies generated in the immune system as a reaction to it. The most frequently used tests include:
1. Testing for antibodies :- Detect HIV antibodies in saliva or blood.
2. Testing for antigens and antibodies :- Detect both the virus and antibodies, which allows to detect the virus earlier.
3. DNA tests (NATs) :- Identify the genetic material of HIV in the blood.
AIDS is diagnosed on the basis of the combination of several factors, such as an enumeration of CD4 cells below 200 and the presence of other opportunistic diseases and certain cancers.
Treatment for HIV and AIDS
The cure isn’t available for HIV, however antiretroviral treatment (ART) aids in managing the disease and stops the progression of the virus to AIDS. The ART regimen is comprised of a mix of medicines that:
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Lower the amount of viruses within the body
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Enhance the immune system
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Avoid the spread of HIV to other people
For AIDS treatment, the focus is on preventing opportunistic infections improving immunity and preserving the quality of life.
Preventing HIV and AIDS
Since HIV can cause AIDS Prevention efforts are focused on preventing the spread HIV. Strategies that work include:
1. Sexually safe methods :- Using condoms and restricting how many sexual relationships you have decreases the possibility of transmission.
2. HIV screening and treatment early :- A regular testing schedule and the early ART can help combat the virus prior to it weakening the immune system.
3. PrEP: Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) :- Medication for HIV-negative people who are with a high risk of becoming infected can help prevent HIV transmission.
4. PEP (Post-exposure Prophylaxis) (PEP) :- Emergency treatment taken within 72 hours following exposure to HIV decreases the risk of contracting the virus.
5. Preventing needle sharing :- Utilizing clean needles and syringes can prevent HIV transmission in users of drugs.
6. Mother-to-child transmission prevention :- Pregnant women who are HIV positive and taking ART have a significant reduction in the possibility of passing the virus to their infants.
Myths and Misconceptions
There are a myriad of misconceptions regarding HIV and AIDS that create stigma and confusion. The most common myths are:
1. Myth The HIV/AIDS epidemic is only affecting certain populations :- The fact is that anyone is susceptible to contracting HIV regardless of age, gender and sexual preference.
2. Myth The idea that you can contract HIV through unintentional contact :- HIV is not spread by handshakes, hugging or sharing food items, or sharing a bathroom.
3. The Myth HIV could be the cause of death :- The truth is that with proper treatment, those suffering from HIV can live long and well-balanced lives.
Conclusion
Although HIV is a complication, and AIDS are both related but they are two distinct diseases. HIV is a disease which can be controlled by treatment, whereas AIDS is the more advanced stage of HIV disease that is marked by severe damage to the immune system. Early detection, appropriate treatment and preventive measures are able to aid people in living longer and healthier lives regardless of the HIV diagnosis.
Understanding the difference in HIV or AIDS is vital for generating awareness and encouraging early testing and decreasing stigma. By being aware and taking preventive steps, people can shield themselves and others from transmission of HIV
