Infected with HIV and not exhibit any of the symptoms of AIDS?

  • Thread starter LadiesMan
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In summary, HIV weakens the immune system and can lead to diseases, but a person may not exhibit symptoms of AIDS if their T helper cell count remains above a certain level. This is because it is not HIV itself that is fatal, but rather the other diseases that take advantage of a weakened immune system. If a person's body is strong enough to fight off these other diseases while infected with HIV, they may not show symptoms.
  • #1
LadiesMan
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Why it is possible for a human to be infected with HIV and not exhibit any of the symptoms of AIDS?

I understand that HIV deteriorates the immune system leading to diseases, and that HIV may show no symptoms, but why is that?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
The number of T helper cells needs to go below a certain critical value before cell-mediated immunity is lost and the body is more susceptible to infections.
 
  • #3
that's true, but why is it that they may not exhibit any symptoms?
 
  • #4
Because it's not HIV that kills you, it's the other diseases that gain an easier access into your body that kills you. If your body is strong enough to fight off the other diseases while being infected with HIV, then why would you show symptoms?
 
  • #5
ahh ok thank you!
 

What does it mean to be "infected with HIV but not exhibit any symptoms of AIDS"?

Being infected with HIV means that the HIV virus is present in the body, but the individual may not exhibit any symptoms of AIDS. This means that the virus is actively replicating and can be transmitted to others, but the immune system has not yet been severely weakened by the virus.

How common is it for someone to be infected with HIV but not show any symptoms of AIDS?

It is estimated that around 1 in 8 people with HIV in the United States are unaware of their infection and may not show any symptoms of AIDS. This is because HIV can remain asymptomatic for many years before progressing to AIDS.

Can a person with HIV who does not exhibit symptoms of AIDS still transmit the virus to others?

Yes, a person infected with HIV can still transmit the virus to others even if they do not exhibit any symptoms of AIDS. HIV can be transmitted through various means, such as unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.

What factors can contribute to an individual with HIV not exhibiting symptoms of AIDS?

There are several factors that can contribute to a person with HIV not exhibiting symptoms of AIDS. These may include genetic factors, the amount of virus in the body, the person's overall health and immune system, and access to HIV treatment and medications.

Is it possible for a person with HIV to never develop symptoms of AIDS?

While it is possible for a person with HIV to never develop symptoms of AIDS, it is rare. Without proper treatment, HIV will eventually progress to AIDS and cause severe damage to the immune system. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many people with HIV can live long and healthy lives without ever developing symptoms of AIDS.

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