TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Understanding the Causes of HIV/AIDS
2. Types of HIV
3. Who Is at Risk?
4. What Are the Symptoms of HIV/AIDS?
5. How HIV/AIDS is Diagnosed
6. How HIV/AIDS is Treated
7. Common HIV/AIDS Medications
8. Complications of HIV/AIDS
9. Can HIV/AIDS Be Prevented?

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HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, particularly CD4 cells (a type of white blood cell). 

If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the final and most severe stage of HIV infection. 

However, with proper treatment, people living with HIV can maintain a healthy life and prevent the progression to AIDS.

Understanding the Causes of HIV/AIDS

HIV spreads through specific bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. 

Common transmission routes include:

• Unprotected sexual intercourse with an HIV-positive partner
• Sharing needles or syringes
• Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding
• Transfusion of contaminated blood (now rare due to strict screening)

Social stigma, lack of awareness, and misinformation still play significant roles in the continued spread of HIV, especially in regions like Indonesia where most transmissions occur through unprotected sex and needle sharing.

Types of HIV

There are two main types of HIV:

• HIV-1: The most common and aggressive strain globally, with various subtypes.
• HIV-2: Found mainly in West Africa, progresses more slowly, and is less transmissible.

HIV-2 is also less responsive to certain antiretroviral medications, requiring tailored treatment approaches.

Who Is at Risk?

People at higher risk of contracting HIV include:

• Individuals who engage in unprotected sex with multiple partners
• Injecting drug users
• Those with other sexually transmitted infections
• People undergoing body piercings or tattoos in unsterile settings
• Partners of HIV-positive individuals

What Are the Symptoms of HIV/AIDS?

HIV symptoms vary by stage, including:

• Acute Stage (Weeks After Infection): Flu-like symptoms, fever, sore throat, rash, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes
• Chronic Stage (Asymptomatic): May last for years with no symptoms, but the virus continues to damage the immune system
• AIDS Stage: Marked by severe immune suppression, persistent fever, chronic diarrhea, rapid weight loss, opportunistic infections (e.g., TB, candidiasis), and certain cancers like Kaposi’s sarcoma or lymphoma

How HIV/AIDS is Diagnosed

Early diagnosis is key. Common tests include:

• Antibody Tests: Detect the body’s response to the virus
• Antigen Tests: Identify specific HIV proteins (e.g., p24 antigen)
• CD4 Count: Assesses immune function (AIDS is diagnosed when CD4 count < 200 cells/mm³)
• Viral Load Test: Measures how much HIV is in the blood
• Drug Resistance Test: Determines which medications are effective

You can now access at-home testing kits like the Onestep HIV Test, but lab confirmation is still recommended for accurate diagnosis.

How HIV/AIDS is Treated

There is no cure for HIV, but it is treatable with antiretroviral therapy (ART). These medications help:

• Suppress viral load to undetectable levels
• Preserve immune function by protecting CD4 cells
• Reduce transmission risk

Common ARV drugs include Tenofovir, Lamivudine, Zidovudine, and Nevirapine. Consistency is key, missing doses can cause resistance and reduce effectiveness.

Monitoring treatment involves regular viral load and CD4 tests every 3–6 months. Treatment should begin as soon as HIV is diagnosed.

Common HIV/AIDS Medications

Doctors may prescribe:

• Kifovir/Ricovir (Tenofovir)
• Tafnat (Tenofovir Alafenamide)
• Heplav (Lamivudine)
• Lopivia (Lopinavir + Ritonavir)

All medications are available at certified pharmacies with strict privacy protection.

Complications of HIV/AIDS

If left untreated, HIV can lead to serious complications, including:

• Opportunistic infections: TB, pneumonia (PCP), candidiasis
• Neurological conditions: confusion, memory loss, depression, HIV-related dementia
• Certain cancers: Kaposi’s sarcoma, lymphoma, cervical cancer
• Organ damage: kidney disease, liver complications
• Wasting syndrome: significant unintentional weight loss
• Cryptococcal meningitis and toxoplasmosis (brain infections)

Can HIV/AIDS Be Prevented?

Yes, HIV can be prevented through several proven strategies:

• Always use condoms during sex
• Avoid sharing needles
• Get tested regularly, especially if you’re at higher risk
• Take PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) immediately after possible exposure
• Consider PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) if you’re at ongoing risk
• Ensure safe practices during pregnancy and childbirth to prevent mother-to-child transmission

If you suspect HIV exposure or experience symptoms, consult a specialist. Halodoc offers online consultations and discreet at-home testing and delivery services.

Don’t hesitate to contact our English-speaking doctor directly from your smartphone  using the Halodoc app at any time. Doctors are available 24 hours to answer your questions.

Now, you can purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

References:

CDC. Accessed in 2025. About HIV.

Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. HIV/AIDS.

Cleveland Clinic. Accessed in 2025. HIV & AIDS.

Communicable Diseases Agency. Accessed in 2025. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

FAQs

1. What does the HIV virus look like?

HIV is a round virus measuring 100–120 nanometers, with outer proteins (gp120, gp41) that attach to immune cells.

2. When do HIV symptoms first appear?

Usually 2–6 weeks after exposure during the acute stage, with flu-like symptoms.

2. Is HIV visible in sperm?

No. Infected semen looks normal but can carry the virus, making unprotected sex risky.

3. Are symptoms different in men and women?

Yes. Women may experience recurrent genital infections or cervical issues, while men may have frequent fever, unexplained weight loss, and genital ulcers.