Understanding HIV/AIDS and the Best Treatment Options in Delhi
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a global public health concern, and HIV/AIDS is one of the most devastating among them. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 38 million people are living with HIV/AIDS worldwide, and an estimated 1.5 million people die from the disease every year.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a life-threatening condition that can lead to multiple organ failures and death. HIV is transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
Fortunately, timely detection and treatment can help individuals with HIV live long and healthy lives. If you or someone you know is seeking the best HIV treatment in Delhi, it's important to understand the disease and the available treatment options.
Understanding HIV/AIDS
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, which is responsible for defending the body against infections and diseases. The virus targets a type of white blood cell called CD4 cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections.
When HIV enters the body, it starts to replicate and destroy CD4 cells. As the number of CD4 cells decreases, the immune system becomes weak, and the body becomes vulnerable to infections and diseases that it would normally be able to fight off.
Symptoms of HIV can vary from person to person, and some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, swollen glands, and rashes. These symptoms can appear within 2-4 weeks of infection and may last for several weeks.
If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS, which is characterized by a severely weakened immune system. People with AIDS are at high risk of developing opportunistic infections and certain cancers, which can be life-threatening.
Diagnosing HIV/AIDS
Early detection of HIV is crucial for effective treatment and management of the disease. In Delhi, there are several testing facilities where individuals can get tested for HIV. HIV tests are usually done using blood samples and results are typically available within a few days.
There are several types of HIV tests, including antibody tests, antigen tests, and nucleic acid tests. Antibody tests detect the presence of HIV antibodies in the blood, which the body produces in response to the virus. Antigen tests detect the presence of HIV antigens, which are viral proteins. Nucleic acid tests detect the genetic material of the virus.