Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome?

AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, is an incredibly serious and life-threatening condition. It is caused by the HIV virus, which attacks and weakens a person’s immune system and leaves them vulnerable to other illnesses. AIDS has no known cure, though treatments are available to slow its progression. There are ways to prevent it from spreading, such as avoiding contact with infected blood or bodily fluids and practicing safe sex.The most common way that people become infected with AIDS is through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected partner. In some cases, it can also be spread through sharing needles for intravenous drug use or exposure to contaminated blood products during a transfusion. An unborn child can become infected if the mother carries the virus; this is why pregnant women should get tested for HIV regularly during their pregnancy so that they can receive appropriate treatment if necessary.The symptoms of AIDS vary widely but may include fever, weight loss, fatigue and skin problems. Other more severe symptoms can occur as well depending on the stage of infection; these may include severe diarrhea, rapid breathing and swollen lymph nodes in the neck area. If left untreated, AIDS can lead to organ failure and death within several years after diagnosis due to opportunistic infections associated with weakened immunity from the virus itself. It’s important for individuals who are at risk of contracting HIV/AIDS – such as those engaging in unprotected sex – to get tested regularly so that they know their status and can take appropriate precautions if necessary (particularly when it comes to having safe sex).