How does one contract AIDS?

Feb 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Feng

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, AIDS can be transmitted through sexual contact, blood transmission, mother-to-child transmission, and other means. If you have concerns, it is recommended to consult a physician. Sexual contact is the primary mode of HIV transmission, particularly unprotected sexual activity and having multiple sexual partners, which significantly increases the risk of contracting AIDS.

Under normal circumstances, AIDS may be transmitted through sexual contact, blood transmission, mother-to-child transmission, and other similar routes. If concerned, it is recommended to consult a physician for professional advice. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Sexual Transmission

HIV exists in the bodily fluids of infected individuals, such as semen and vaginal secretions. During sexual activity, these virus-containing fluids may enter the body of an uninfected person through sexual contact. Particularly when there are minor injuries or inflammation in the mucous membranes of the genital organs, the virus can more easily penetrate the mucous membrane and enter the circulatory system, thereby causing infection.

2. Blood Transmission

Blood transmission is another significant route of HIV spread. It mainly occurs through sharing needles, syringes, inadequately sterilized medical instruments, or receiving untested blood or blood products. HIV exists in the blood of infected individuals, and when this blood enters the body of an uninfected person via the aforementioned routes, the virus can directly enter the circulatory system, rapidly spread, and infect immune cells.

3. Mother-to-Child Transmission

Mother-to-child transmission refers to the transmission of HIV from an infected pregnant woman to her fetus or infant during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. HIV can pass through the placenta into the fetal circulation, infect the newborn during delivery through contact with the mother's blood and secretions, or be transmitted through breastfeeding. Modern medicine can reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission through preventive measures such as antiviral therapy, cesarean section, and formula feeding.

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating a balanced diet, and enhancing immune function in daily life can help protect against HIV infection.

Related Articles

View All

Can you eat cauliflower when you have a cold and fever?

In general, it is acceptable to eat cauliflower when having a cold or fever, but attention should be paid to the cooking method—opt for light preparations and avoid spicy or irritating seasonings. Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and various minerals. Vitamin C helps boost immunity, while dietary fiber promotes intestinal motility and aids digestion, making it suitable for individuals experiencing physical weakness and reduced digestive function during a cold or fever.

View Full Answer

What conditions can kill the HIV virus?

There are several conditions that can kill the HIV virus, including high-temperature treatment, use of disinfectants, exposure to dry environments, ultraviolet irradiation, and antiviral medications. Items containing HIV can be placed in a 100°C environment for more than 20 minutes, or treated under high-pressure steam at 121°C for 15 minutes, which destroys the viral protein structure.

View Full Answer

Three major symptoms of HIV in men

There is no such thing as the "three symptoms of HIV in men." After men are infected with HIV, they may experience systemic symptoms during the acute phase, latent manifestations during the asymptomatic phase, immunosuppressive symptoms during the AIDS stage, mucocutaneous lesions, and abnormalities in the digestive and nervous systems. Symptoms gradually emerge as the disease progresses. If someone has engaged in high-risk behaviors and develops related symptoms, or suspects infection, medical evaluation is recommended.

View Full Answer

What percentage should adherence to antiviral medication for HIV treatment achieve?

Adherence to antiviral therapy for HIV must reach over 95%, which is a critical requirement for suppressing viral replication and controlling disease progression; falling below this level significantly compromises treatment effectiveness. If long-term adherence is inadequate or adverse drug reactions occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended to adjust the treatment regimen. This level of adherence means missing no more than 1–2 doses per month.

View Full Answer

What are the early physical symptoms of AIDS?

In general, the early stage of AIDS is the acute phase following viral invasion of the body, and common physical symptoms include persistent low-grade fever, swollen lymph nodes, skin rash, gastrointestinal discomfort, and sore throat. Early symptoms of AIDS are nonspecific and can easily be mistaken for a cold or common infection. Individuals with a history of high-risk behaviors who experience these symptoms should promptly undergo HIV antibody testing.

View Full Answer

What are the oral mucosal manifestations of AIDS?

In general, due to impaired immune function, HIV/AIDS patients are prone to various oral mucosal lesions. Common manifestations include oral candidiasis, hairy leukoplakia of the tongue, recurrent herpes outbreaks, linear gingival erythema, and persistent oral ulcers. These oral symptoms are often early signs of AIDS, and individuals with high-risk behaviors should be vigilant.

View Full Answer

What should be done for long-term low-grade fever in AIDS patients?

In general, the main approaches to managing long-term low-grade fever in HIV patients include adequate rest, physical cooling, medication, nutritional support, and screening for complications. Additionally, patients must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication use and should not discontinue or adjust dosages on their own, especially antiviral drugs, which must be taken at regular times and correct doses to prevent drug resistance. Regular monitoring of viral load and immune function is also necessary.

View Full Answer

What should I do about swollen lymph nodes in the neck due to AIDS?

In general, the management of neck lymph node enlargement in AIDS patients mainly includes supportive care, antiviral therapy, anti-infective treatment, traditional Chinese medicine, and immunomodulatory therapy. In addition, patients must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication and should not adjust dosages or discontinue treatment on their own. Regular follow-up tests for viral load, CD4 cell count, and lymph node status are necessary, along with proper personal protection to prevent transmission to others.

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.