HIV

Doctor wearing lab coat and stethoscope holds a red ribbon

What is HIV?

Stages of HIV Infection

  • Acute HIV Infection: This is the earliest stage, occurring 2-4 weeks after exposure. Individuals are highly contagious.

  • Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency): HIV is still active but reproduces at very low levels. Without treatment, this phase can last a decade or longer, but some may progress faster.

  • AIDS: The immune system is severely damaged, and the body becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Without treatment, people with AIDS typically survive approximately 3 years.

Understanding HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, particularly the CD4 cells (T cells) that fight infections. Without treatment, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the most severe stage. Unlike some other viruses, the body cannot fully eliminate HIV, so it remains for life once contracted.

How HIV is Transmitted

HIV can be transmitted through:

  • Blood: Sharing needles or syringes, transfusions with infected blood or transplanted organs (current screening has nearly eliminated the risk of HIV following a transfusion or organ transplant).

  • Sexual Contact: Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.

  • Mother-to-Child: During pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

  • Other Means: Contact with infected bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk.

  • HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, air, water, or by sharing food or drinks.

Symptoms of HIV

Many people with HIV experience flu-like symptoms within 2-4 weeks after infection, which might include:

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Rash

  • Night sweats

  • Muscle aches

  • Sore throat

  • Fatigue

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Mouth ulcers

These symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks. However, some people may not show symptoms for years after exposure.

HIV Services

At Bay Area Community Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals living with HIV. Our goal is to manage the virus effectively, promote overall health, and enhance the quality of life for our patients. Here is an overview of the specialized services we offer:

  • Diagnosis and Monitoring

    • Early Detection: Regular HIV testing to ensure early diagnosis.

    • Continuous Monitoring: Frequent checks of viral load and CD4 cell counts to assess and manage your health status.

  • Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)

    • Medication Management: Prescription of antiretroviral medications tailored to your needs.

    • Adherence Support: Counseling and support to help you maintain consistent medication use for optimal results.

  • Preventive Care

    • Vaccinations: Immunizations against influenza, hepatitis B, and other preventable illnesses.

    • Prophylaxis: Preventive treatments to protect against opportunistic infections for those at risk.

    • Education: Guidance on safe practices to minimize the risk of HIV transmission to others.

  • Comprehensive Management of Co-existing Conditions

    • Co-infection Treatment: Specialized care for co-infections such as hepatitis B or C, and tuberculosis.

    • Chronic Disease Management: Integrated care for conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health issues.

  • Regular Health Check-ups

    • Routine Check-ups: Regular health evaluations to monitor your overall well-being.

    • Laboratory Testing: Comprehensive lab tests to check liver and kidney function, cholesterol levels, and other critical health indicators.

  • Patient Education and Advocacy

    • Information Resources: Comprehensive education on living with HIV, treatment options, and healthy lifestyle choices.

    • Advocacy: Support in navigating healthcare systems and accessing necessary services and treatments.

  • Coordinated Care

    • Integrated Healthcare: Coordination between various healthcare providers to ensure seamless and comprehensive care.

    • Specialist Referrals: Access to specialized medical professionals as needed for specific health concerns.

  • HIV Support Services

    • Mental health counseling

    • Nutritional support and dietary counseling.

    • Substance abuse treatment and counseling.

    • Medical Case Management Services

    • Early Intervention Services

    • Psychosocial Support Groups (English/Spanish)

    • ADAP enrollment

    • And more...

We provide comprehensive Ryan White HIV services in Alameda County. For eligibility, visit Eligibility (EN) | Oakland/Alameda TGA.

Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is here to support you every step of the way. We understand the unique challenges of living with HIV and are committed to providing compassionate, personalized care.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 510-770-8040 or 408-729-9700.

HIV & Aging

At Bay Area Community Health, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for older adults living with HIV. Our multidisciplinary team is here to support you in managing your health and living a full, vibrant life.

Understanding the Intersection of HIV and Aging

As medical advancements continue to improve, people living with HIV are now living longer, healthier lives. However, aging with HIV presents unique health challenges that require specialized care and attention.

The Impact of Aging on HIV

  • Aging can affect HIV in several ways:

    • Immune System Changes: The natural aging process weakens the immune system, which can complicate the management of HIV.

    • Increased Comorbidities: Older adults with HIV are more likely to develop other health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cognitive impairments.

    • Medication Management: Managing multiple medications for HIV and other age-related conditions can increase the risk of drug interactions and side effects.

  • Health Considerations for Older Adults with HIV

    Regular Health Screenings:

    • Cardiovascular health checks

    • Bone density tests

    • Blood glucose monitoring

    • Cancer screenings

  • Mental Health

    • Regular cognitive assessments

    • Access to mental health support for depression, anxiety, and other conditions

  • Lifestyle and Wellness

    • Nutritional guidance tailored to older adults

    • Exercise programs to maintain mobility and cardiovascular health

    • Smoking cessation and substance use support

    • Medication Adherence and Management:

    • Simplified medication regimens where possible

    • Regular review of all medications to avoid interactions

    • Support for managing side effects

Resources