Approximately 36.7 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2016, with 1.8 million people becoming newly infected in the same period globally, according to the World Health Organization International.
What is HIV/AIDS?
HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus attacks the immune system of the body, weakening its ability to combat infections. Additionally, this virus may progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or AIDS. Symptoms of HIV and AIDS may vary, but typically, patients suffer from a fever, headache, rash, or sore throat. It is still important for patients to undergo proper testing because symptoms are not easily detectable.
Although there is no cure for this type of virus, a drug called antiretroviral (ARV) can control the virus and prevent it from transmitting. It helps the patients and those at risk to manage healthy and longer lives. Apart from that, patients can also consider palliative care program.
What is Palliative Care Program?
Palliative care helps patients, who have decided to seek life-extending therapies, relieve the pain and distress from their condition. The Center for Hospice Care shares that the aim of this treatment is to give patients with incurable illnesses the opportunity to improve their quality of life despite their situation. This kind of treatment can help people with severe cases of HIV/AIDS ease the pain and live the life they want.
Patients can do this treatment in hospitals, in a hospice or at home. No matter the setting, patients receive adequate access to specialized care, medical staff, and various support services.
Dealing with HIV/AIDS is difficult, but treatment options are available. With palliative care, patients can manage the pain, fatigue, side effects from medication, and the depression. Whether it’s you or a loved one, the specialized medical care—at home or in a hospice—can contribute to a better quality of life.
