Topic: Aids/HIV - Essay Example

This makes the disease quite dangerous such that it does not see color, gender, economic background or even a specific age group. It, therefore, affects anyone, at any time when one is exposed to a risky situation. HIV reproduces while destroying the body’s immune system; thus rendering the body susceptible to other illnesses and infections. Simple diseases such as common flu can be of detrimental effect in the presence of HIV/AIDS. The indicators of HIV and AIDS are related but do differ considering the phase of the disease.

Signs at the initial stage of the infection may carry no symptoms at all. However, the most common sign or symptom in the beginning of this illness may include fever, headache, sore throat, swollen glands and rashes. These flu-like symptoms last for two to four weeks after being infected and usually disappear on their own. After the initial symptoms disappear, HIV then becomes asymptomatic and could possibly remain this way for up to ten years (Alexandrova 369). Even though no symptoms are present, the virus will continue to cause damage to the immune system.

The length of this asymptomatic or symptom free phase varies from individual depending only on how fast the virus multiplies in their blood system. After being symptom free for eight or nine years an individual may develop mild infections or constant signs such as; diarrhea, weight loss, fever, cough and shortness of breath (Alexandrova 369). The final stages of HIV are referred to as full-blown AIDS. By this stage, the immune system is already severely damaged. The signs and symptoms may include, but at not limited to, soaking night sweats, fever for several weeks, dry cough and shortness of breath, chronic diarrhea, persistent white spots or unusual lesions on one’s mouth, blurred or distorted vision.

The human immune system consists of two types of crucial cells: B cells and T cells. These cells work together to reproduce and fight off infections and foreign substances in the body. When an individual is infected with the disease, the cells necessary for production of antibodies are not developed and cannot eliminate the cells containing any disease or infection. This means that the virus causes the cells fail to regenerate and fight off infections (Macfarlane 985). There are several treatments and preventions for the disease.

Many regular treatments can restore the hope for individuals with HIV. However, these treatments can result into many side effects and do not necessarily offer a cure for the disease. Many individuals have opted for alternative medicines: These are mostly therapies that are aimed at reinforcing the immune system, providing relief from symptoms and side effects from drugs, and improving the quality of life. Alternative medicines connect the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual parts of the body.

Some examples of alternative medicines are homeopathic medicine, naturopathic medicine and Ayurveda. On the other hand, homeopathic medicines are natural substances like minerals and herbs. Some people believe that the substances can cure when taken in small doses. Naturopathic medicine uses natural healing forcers within the body to heal. Ayurveda is practiced mostly in some parts of the world, and it highlights the use of the body, brain and human spirit to prevent and cure diseases. Some people use alternative medicines alongside the standard medicines.

This is known as complimentary or integrative