Treatment options for patients infected with HIV?

The following is a list of treatment options for HIV infected patients:

HAART (Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy)

HAART is a three or more drug cocktail that works together to fight HIV. This treatment method attempts to reduce the levels of HIV in the blood stream while at the same time bolstering the body’s immune system. There are a wide variety of drugs that are available to treat HIV, and the uses for these drugs are determined by a doctor on a case by case basis depending on the patient. HAART is usually only prescribed to HIV infected patients when they start to exhibit symptoms of HIV.

Although drugs used for the treatment of HIV have helped many patients live long and relatively healthy lives, there are serious side effects that may develop from using these drugs as well. It is extremely important to be regimented in taking HIV drug treatments and not miss doses. Doing so can allow the virus to develop a resistance to the drugs prevent them for working.

Preventive medicines

The HIV can severely weaken a patient’s immune system. As a result, it leaves patients vulnerable to contracting other illnesses such as PCP (pneumocystis carinii pneumonia) and MAC (Mycobacterium avium complex). However, there are a variety of medicines that can help patients with weakened immune systems from contracting these other illnesses.

Treatments for AIDS-related illnesses

There are a host of diseases and ailments that can result from the development of full blown AIDS. These illnesses can include cancers, infections, and other conditions. Combining these treatments with HAART, as needed, can help people with AIDS live healthier, longer lives.

Healthy living

It is important for patients infected with HIV to do as much as they can to develop healthy living habits. Important health habits may include:

• Eating a healthy well balance diet
• Following safe food handling methods
• Taking vitamins as directed by a doctor or nutritionist
• Plenty of exercise (both aerobic and muscle-building)
• Getting adequate rest and sleep
• Reduce stress
• Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, street drugs, and other harmful substances.