What is AIDS?
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome commonly known as AIDS is caused by Human Immune Deficiency virus (HIV). HIV infection is either HIV-1, HIV-2, HIV-1 & 2 or by HIV-1-O. It is found in the body fluids like semen, blood, vaginal and anal fluids and breast milk of an infected person.
HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva, urine or sweat. If HIV is left untreated, it will take around 10 to 15 years for AIDS to develop, which is when HIV has severely damaged the immune system.
How it is Manageable?
HIV infections are manageable with Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) which comprises of 3-4 Anti-Retroviral drugs (ARVs).
The response rate is the best with these drugs when they are given for the first time. Hence, HIV positive patients are counseled for Adherence 3-4 times before starting HAART. Non adherence to these drugs leads to viral replication, viral mutations and drug resistance and thereby failure of the 1st line regimen.
HIV is monitored by measuring plasma viral load. CD4 and CD4% are the prognostic markers. The goal of the therapy is to achieve Undetectable Viral Load and CD4 count above 200cells/mm3.
Most of the Anti-Retro virals (ARVs) cause hyperlipidemia, lipo-hypertrophy or lipo-atrophy. Hyperlipidemia leads to Coronary Artery Disease (C.A.D.). Therefore, periodic lipid profile check up is required in addition to CD4 counts and plasma viral load.
Specilized Doctor in pune
Dr. Sachin Melinkeri practiced his specialty at Pune and managed many patients and also reached the unreached. He lectured several NGOs. He has participated actively in organizing National Scientific Conferences on HIV/AIDS to propagate the need for active and proper management of HIV with International Guidelines He has also good experience of delivering lectures and talks for HIGH RISK groups and students as well.
Get relief soon with the treatment
With the help of the said treatment for HIV, one can live the normal life for long years. Continuous treatment and medication for AIDS can heal the patient upto a higher level where he can proceed for further years of life.