A simple blood test is available to detect the presence of HIV “antibodies” in the bloodstream. Once diagnosed, it is important to determine the degree of immune suppression. Early infection recognition responds especially well to medical and nutritional treatment.
Several antiviral agents such as AZT, d4T, or 3Tc are usually available. Infected women who are pregnant and using AZT reduce the risk of infection for their babies to less than 2%. These drugs slow down the rate of disease progression. Protease Inhibitors, nucleoside analogues, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) all help to prevent the virus from reproduction. Other treatments, including good diet and exercise also help slowdown the development of the opportunistic infections when the disease is more advanced. There is no cure for HIV infection!! So, be wise!
If you believe that you may be HIV+, we encourage you to contact your doctor or health agency and be tested.
