HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, particularly CD4 cells, which help the body fight infections. Without treatment, the virus can gradually weaken the immune system and eventually lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

HIV remains in the body for life, but treatment can keep the virus under control and protect the immune system. The choice of treatment and follow-up care depends on factors such as the viral load, CD4 cell count, other health conditions, and how well treatment is working.

Quick Facts

How Does HIV Affect the Immune System?

HIV enters and gradually damages CD4 cells, which help coordinate the body's immune response. Early infection can cause flu-like symptoms, but some people do not notice any symptoms.

Without treatment, the number of CD4 cells can fall, leaving the body more vulnerable to infections and other complications. HIV can progress to AIDS when the immune system becomes severely weakened.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) lowers the amount of HIV in the blood and helps protect the immune system. It needs to be taken regularly to keep the virus suppressed over the long term. Blood tests, including viral load and CD4 cell counts, are used during follow-up to see how well treatment is working.

FAQs

Q1. How can I order HIV medicines from MrMed?

Search for your prescribed medicine on MrMed and provide the required prescription details when placing an order.

Q2. Can HIV medicines interact with other medicines or supplements?

Yes. HIV medicines may interact with prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements. Tell your doctor about everything you take before starting or changing treatment.

Q3. What are the common side effects of HIV medicines?

Side effects depend on the medicines used. Some may include:

• Nausea

• Headache

• Diarrhoea

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

Talk to your doctor if side effects are severe or persistent.

Q4. What precautions should I take while using HIV medicines?

Follow the prescribed treatment schedule carefully. You should also:

• Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take.

• Attend recommended viral load and CD4 count tests.

• Follow advice about preventing infections and maintaining your health.

• Do not change the dose or stop treatment without medical advice.

Q5. How are HIV medicines safely delivered?

MrMed follows the required storage, handling, packing, and transportation practices for medicines. Medicines with specific storage requirements are handled accordingly during delivery.

Q6. What are the symptoms of HIV?

Some people have no symptoms, particularly during the early stages. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Sore throat

• Skin rash

• Recurrent or persistent infections

Symptoms can vary depending on the stage of infection and immune function.

Q7. What causes HIV?

HIV is caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus. It can be transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk. It can also pass from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, sharing food, or using the same toilet.

Q8. Can HIV be cured?

There is currently no cure that completely removes HIV from the body. However, antiretroviral therapy can suppress the virus to very low levels and help people live long, healthy lives.

Taking treatment consistently can also prevent sexual transmission of HIV when the viral load remains undetectable. Regular medical follow-up is important to monitor treatment and overall health.

See Also