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HIV / AIDS
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, and it is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV breaks down the immune system, which is our body's protection against disease, and causes people to become sick with infections that normally wouldn't affect them.
AIDS is short for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. It is the most advanced stage of HIV disease. In the United States, more than 980,000 cases of AIDS have been reported to the government, and about 40,000 women and men in the United States get HIV each year.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may not present themselves for ten or more years, but common symptoms include:
- Swollen glands in the throat, armpit or groin
- Slight fever, headaches, fatigue and muscle aches
- Unexplained weight loss, diarrhea or lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Persistent fevers or night sweats
- Lightheadedness or headaches
- A thick, whitish coating of yeast on the tongue or mouth called "thrush"
- Severe or recurring vaginal yeast infections
- Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease
- Purplish growths on the skin
Testing and Treatment
Testing for HIV is available at all PPIN health center locations.
- Testing: PPIN offers the rapid response test. The rapid response test is an oral swab that checks for HIV antibodies through saliva. Results are available after 20 minutes.
- Treatment: While there is no cure or vaccine currently available for HIV/AIDS, new drugs and research are making it possible for individuals with HIV and AIDS to live longer and healthier lives. PPIN will connect you with the appropriate community resources and medical care providers if you test positive for HIV.
Reduce your risk: Practice safer sex!
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Herpes
