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AIDS

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a viral infection that slowly weakens your immune system. The virus kills a type of white blood cell called CD4. The loss of CD4 cells weakens your immune system. Over time, a weak immune system makes it difficult for you to fight infections. This can also lead to certain cancers and heart disease. A normal CD4 count ranges from 500 to 2,000. You have HIV when your CD4 count ranges from 200 to 500. You have AIDS when your CD4 count is less than 200 or you have one of the infections or cancers caused by AIDS. AIDS means your immune system cannot fight off infections and disease. This can become life-threatening.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

Contact your healthcare provider if:

Medicines:

Nutrition:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

Follow up with your healthcare provider every 3 or 4 months:

You will need to visit your healthcare provider at least every 3 months for a physical exam. Your provider will order blood tests often to check your CD4 cell and viral load counts. You may need tests for other infections on a regular basis. Tell your provider if side effects from your medicines bother you. Write down your questions so your remember to ask them during your visits.

Self-care:

You or the person who helps care for you at home can do any of the following to increase your comfort:

Prevent the spread of HIV:

Tell your sex partners of your HIV status. Do not have sex without a latex condom. If you inject drugs, do not share needles or syringes. Use a needle exchange program to obtain clean needles. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you need help to stop injecting drugs.

For support and more information:

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.