What are opportunistic infections, and what are my risks of getting one?
Damage to your immune system from HIV can result in the development of opportunistic infections (OIs). These infections are most often seen in people with HIV/AIDS because they occur when the body’s immune system is weakened. Symptoms vary from infection to infection and may include such different signs as cold sores and extreme weight loss. Your CD4 cell counts can play a role in determining your risk for getting an infection. Certain factors, such as ethnicity and sharing needles for injection drug use, also can put you at a higher risk for different OIs. The good news is that HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) may help reduce your risk of infection. I’s important to tell your doctor about any new symptoms that are severe or don’t go away, such as fever, swollen glands, night sweats, headaches, diarrhea, or weight loss. These could be a sign of HIV progression. Talking with your doctor about how to prevent OIs can help you better manage your health.
