What are the dangers of AIDS?
Feb 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the hazards of AIDS include impaired immune system, opportunistic infections, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, psychological burdens, etc. If necessary, it is recommended to consult a physician. The HIV virus primarily attacks the human immune system, especially the CD4+ T lymphocytes, leading to decreased immunity and making patients more susceptible to opportunistic infections.
Generally, the harms of AIDS include impaired immune system, opportunistic infections, neurological diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and psychological burdens. If needed, it is recommended to consult a physician for advice. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Impaired Immune System
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) primarily attacks the body's immune system, especially CD4+ T lymphocytes. It damages the function and structure of immune cells, rendering the immune system unable to effectively resist invasion by foreign pathogens. This leads to decreased immunity and makes the body susceptible to infections from various bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens.
2. Opportunistic Infections
The immune system in individuals with AIDS cannot function effectively, allowing pathogens that normally do not cause disease in healthy individuals to multiply extensively within the body and cause illness. These opportunistic infections are often severe, difficult to treat, and prone to recurrence.
3. Neurological Diseases
HIV can cross the blood-brain barrier and enter the central nervous system, infecting macrophages and microglial cells in brain tissue. These infected cells release cytokines and neurotoxins that damage nerve cells, affecting the transmission of neural signals and overall neurological function.
4. Cardiovascular Diseases
HIV infection can trigger chronic inflammatory responses, leading to damage of vascular endothelial cells and promoting the formation of atherosclerosis. Additionally, antiviral medications commonly used in the treatment of AIDS may have certain cardiovascular toxicities, which could potentially harm the heart and blood vessels with long-term use.
5. Psychological Burden
An AIDS diagnosis often brings significant psychological stress. Patients may experience negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, and depression. These emotional issues not only affect the patient's mental health but can also impact treatment outcomes.
Individuals living with AIDS should actively participate in social activities, enhance self-awareness and social adaptation skills, to alleviate psychological burdens and improve quality of life.
