Positive Status for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Understand how medical marijuana helps with HIV.

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Medical marijuana can help with the symptoms of HIV. A "positive status" for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) means that a person has tested positive on an HIV test, indicating the presence of HIV antibodies in their blood, which means they are infected with the HIV virus; essentially, they have HIV. 

Key points about a positive HIV status:

• Meaning of a positive test:
  When someone tests positive for HIV, it means their body has produced antibodies against the virus, which is detected by the test. 

• Confirmation needed:
  A positive result on an initial HIV test usually requires a confirmatory test to ensure accuracy. 

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. It weakens the immune system by destroying white blood cells called CD4 T cells. This makes it easier to get sick with other infections and diseases. 

How is HIV spread?

• HIV is spread through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, such as blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. 

• It can be spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from a mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. 

• HIV is not spread by kissing, hugs, or sharing food. 

What are the stages of HIV infection?

• Early infection: HIV spreads most easily in the first few months after infection, but many people don't have symptoms yet. 

• Advanced HIV disease: When the CD4 T cell count drops below 200 cells/mm3. 

• AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome): When the immune system is severely damaged by HIV, leading to life-threatening infections and illnesses. 

How is HIV initially treated?

• HIV can be treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). 

• ART can reduce the amount of HIV in the blood, which is called viral suppression. 

• People with HIV who take ART as prescribed can live long, healthy lives. 

Medical marijuana can help with HIV.

According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, medical marijuana helps treat a variety of painful symptoms associated with HIV AIDS. In addition to increasing appetite stimulation while reducing nausea and inflammation, cannabis also help reduce neuropathic pain, a burning sensation of the skin that occurs spontaneously or is triggered by even the most gentle touch. Those diagnosed with HIV AIDS must also deal with the side effects of medications and cope with a chronic illness for the rest of their lives. Although a happy coincidence, marijuana has also been demonstrated to help relieve feelings of anxiety and depression associated with an HIV diagnosis.