If you have been tested positive for HIV, you should know that this is not curable. People have to live with this condition all their lives. Moreover, you would need to start taking medication and special medical care to treat the virus after the diagnosis. The medicine is known as ART or antiretroviral therapy.
HIV medications that lower the viral load are known as viral suppression. This helps the viral load go low enough so that it cannot be detected. This is called an undetectable viral load. Keeping it low enables you to lead a healthy life. When the viral load stays undetected, you are at no risk of transmitting HIV.
However, if you fail to take medications, the virus attacks the immune system to develop AIDS. It also allows other infections to develop, like cancer; this could eventually lead to death. While there is no cure for the condition, an individual can stay healthy by taking regular medicines and reducing the risk of transmission.
It is essential to seek help from health care providers who manage annual tests and medical care. Alternatively, seek help from other health care providers or special care to get the required treatment and care. People who are living with HIV need to eat healthy and have a balanced diet. Moreover, control the intake of salt, sugar, and processed fats, which will allow the body to absorb the medication and help fight the infection effectively.
Talk to your health care provider if you are/have
- Overweight
- Underweight
- Dietary problems
- Side effects that do not allow you to eat
Moreover, you would also need to exercise. Being active helps you maintain your weight and overall health. Being healthy allows you to burn fat easily, keeps your heart healthy, bones strong, and builds muscles. Those living with HIV lose their strength and muscle mass but exercising prevents this loss and reduces the symptoms of depression.
You need to avoid alcohol or narcotics. Using them weakens the immune system, which could make you feel dizzy and vulnerable.
It is always advised to talk to your family, friends, and people who are HIV positive. You can also look for support from groups, mentors, and friends so that you can talk about your condition better.
Once you have adjusted to the new life and have accepted your condition, you can look towards achieving your goals in your career or personal life. Having HIV should not stop you from doing what you love to do.
It is important to stay in touch with health care providers to understand the condition. They can also educate you about the condition and what you should avoid and expect due to this condition. Moreover, they will help you avoid transmitting this condition to others as well.
