Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, also known as T cells. If left untreated, HIV gradually weakens the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight infections and diseases. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the most severe stage of HIV infection, also known as Stage 3 HIV. At this point, the immune system is significantly compromised, leading to a higher risk of opportunistic infections and life-threatening illnesses.
The Progression of HIV
HIV infection progresses in three stages:
Acute HIV Infection – This occurs within 2 to 4 weeks of exposure to the virus. Individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. This is when the virus multiplies rapidly, and the person is highly contagious.
Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency Stage) – Also called asymptomatic HIV or clinical latency, this stage can last for several years. The virus remains active but reproduces at low levels, and people may not show any symptoms. However, without treatment, the virus continues to weaken the immune system.
AIDS (Stage 3 HIV) – This is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. The immune system is severely damaged, and the body becomes highly susceptible to infections and diseases. Without proper medical care, life expectancy is significantly reduced.
What Happens in Stage 3 HIV (AIDS)?
When HIV progresses to AIDS, the CD4 cell count falls below 200 cells per cubic millimeter of blood (a normal count ranges from 500 to 1,500). At this stage, the immune system is too weak to fight infections, leading to serious complications such as:
Opportunistic Infections (OIs): These are infections that occur more frequently and with greater severity in people with weakened immune systems. Common OIs include tuberculosis, pneumonia, candidiasis, and cytomegalovirus.
Certain Cancers: People with AIDS are at higher risk of cancers such as Kaposi’s sarcoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Neurological Disorders: HIV-related dementia and other brain disorders can occur due to the virus affecting the nervous system.
Severe Weight Loss (Wasting Syndrome): Extreme loss of body weight and muscle mass is common in advanced HIV cases.
Treatment and Management
There is no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives and prevent the progression to AIDS. ART works by reducing the viral load (amount of HIV in the blood) to undetectable levels, which helps the immune system recover and prevents transmission to others.
Preventing HIV Progression
To prevent HIV from advancing to AIDS, it is essential to:
Start ART as soon as possible after diagnosis.
Maintain regular medical checkups and follow treatment plans.
Practice safe sex and take precautions to prevent reinfection.
Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen the immune system.
HIV is a manageable condition with proper medical care and treatment. While Stage 3 HIV (AIDS) is life-threatening, early detection and treatment with ART can prevent the progression to this stage. Raising awareness about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment is crucial in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.
