American diver Greg Louganis was diagnosed with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) six months before his appearance at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The diagnosis felt like a final goodbye then. But with the right treatment since then, the four-time Olympic gold medalist is sixty-four, fit and thriving today.
HIV is no longer the discreet disease it used to be the 1980s. Today, HIV is a reality for millions of people around the world. HIV is caused by a virus that attacks the body’s immune system and is transmitted through exchange of infected bodily fluids – this can be from unprotected sex, shooting of harmful drugs or sharing of used syringes with an already infected person among others. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of the disease.
According to UNAIDS, which is aiming to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, about 39.9 million people were living with HIV in 2023 across the world, with 1.3 million having been newly infected that year. It’s important to note that this disease doesn’t just affect a small group of people, it effects humans from all strata.
The good news is that with the right treatment and care, people living with HIV can lead long and healthy lives. With the right combination of medication, support and self-care, individuals living with HIV can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling life.
World AIDS Day is observed on December 1st and it aims to raise awareness about the disease. This day serves as an opportunity to educate people about the challenges of HIV, reduce stigma and discrimination around it and highlight the importance of prevention, testing and treatment. World AIDS Day encourages us to come together to fight the spread of HIV and support efforts to end the AIDS epidemic. On this day, join us as we explore how to enhance the wellbeing of those living with HIV.
According to UNAIDS, 30.7 million people were taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 2023. This is great news because taking antiretroviral therapy as prescribed by the doctor is one of the most important steps in treating and managing HIV. ART is a combination of medicines that helps lower HIV in the body. By taking ART regularly and not missing doses, people with HIV can keep the virus under control, protect their immune system and lessen the chance of developing AIDS. In addition to this, regular blood tests can help doctors check if the treatment is working and if the medicines need to be adjusted accordingly.
Remember, it’s crucial to take the medication as prescribed by one’s doctor.
When we face any kind of illness, it’s natural to feel scared, anxious or nervous about what might happen. This is especially true for people living with HIV, as the diagnosis can be overwhelming and bring up many emotional challenges. The uncertainty about the future, the stigma of the disease and the physical symptoms can take a toll on their mental health. That’s why it’s very important to take care of one’s mental health after being diagnosed with HIV. Therapy and counselling can be helpful for managing stress, improving self-esteem and dealing with any negative emotions. Talking to a mental health professional can also help people cope with the emotional side of the illness.
A healthy, balanced diet is important for everyone, but it’s crucial for people living with HIV. For all of us, what we eat directly affects our energy levels, immune system and overall health. For people with HIV, a nutritious diet helps keep their body strong, supports their immune system and improves their overall wellbeing. Eating fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats gives their body the nutrients it needs to fight infections, maintain muscle mass and recover from illnesses. Further, staying hydrated shields their body from medicinal side effects and other ailments like indigestion or muscle pain.
It is advised to consult a nutritionist who can help create a diet plan that meets the needs and goals of someone battling HIV.
Medical treatment and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very important for people living with HIV. For the latter, engaging in regular physical activity can help strengthen one’s immune system, maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. For people living with HIV, exercise has mental health benefits as well as it can help combat stress, improve mood and boost energy. Whether it is walking, swimming or yoga, one must find a form of exercise that feels enjoyable and valuable enough to stick to for a long time to see health benefits.
If a person is new to exercising or has specific health concerns, they must first consult a healthcare provider and later start a supervised fitness routine.
Alone, we tend to flounder. Especially when we fall sick, it’s easy to feel like everything is going wrong and wonder, “Why does this always happen to me?” Having a strong support system can make all the difference here. It is important to surround oneself with friends, family and experts who can help, support and advice right when one is dealing with HIV and its treatment. A support network can help patients stay motivated and emotionally strong.
In addition to family and friends, there are many organisations, online forums and support groups specifically for people with HIV. These groups provide a safe space to share one’s story, ask questions and get advice.
People with HIV have a higher risk of contracting certain health problems like heart disease, liver issues or even mental health challenges. So, it’s important to have regular screenings for these conditions. Regular check-ups can help detect any problems early, so they can be treated well in time.
Living with HIV requires care and attention, but with the right treatment, strong support and a healthy lifestyle, it’s possible to enhance one’s overall wellbeing and lead a fulfilling life. HIV is manageable and people living with it have proved, time and again, that a healthy and happy life is indeed, achievable.
HIV attacks the immune system. If untreated, it can lead to AIDS, where the immune system is severely damaged.
It is spread through unprotected sex, sharing used needles or from mother to child during childbirth. There are other ways in which infected bodily fluids can be exchanged, causing HIV.
With proper treatment and care, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives.
AIDS is caused by untreated HIV. Over time, HIV weakens the immune system, leading to life-threatening infections.
Comments