Does AIDS cause itching?

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on September 21, 2024
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People with AIDS experience itching because pruritus is one of the most common symptoms in AIDS patients. It can occur relatively early in the disease. This type of itching occurs without primary skin rashes and is so severe that it is unbearable. In severe cases, there may be a tendency towards suicide. Therefore, in treatment, we use antihistamines with sedative effects. Oral administration is combined with the external application of moisturizing and anti-itch medications. When necessary, ultraviolet light exposure can be used, or it can be combined with other methods.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Will touching AIDS-infected blood lead to transmission?

If the skin is intact, generally, contact with the blood of an HIV-infected person will not transmit the virus. However, if the skin is damaged and comes into contact with the blood of an HIV-infected person, there is a possibility of transmission. Additionally, the mucous membranes of the body, such as in the eyes, inside the mouth, and various cavities, can potentially get infected with HIV if they come into contact with HIV-infected blood. If these mucous membranes are damaged, the risk of HIV infection significantly increases.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Can tattoos transmit AIDS?

Indeed, tattooing is a risk factor for HIV infection, especially in informal institutions where tattoo equipment may be shared. If the tattooing equipment is not properly sterilized, there is a risk of HIV infection. Tattooing and other forms of needle injuries are also pathways for HIV transmission. However, the most common route of HIV transmission is through sexual transmission, often via unprotected sexual activities. There are also cases of mother-to-child transmission, which should be considered based on specific circumstances.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Can AIDS be ruled out after six weeks?

Going to the hospital for HIV screening after six weeks is entirely feasible, as it typically surpasses the window period. However, if you have engaged in high-risk behaviors, we recommend that you get tested again after three months. If there are frequent high-risk behaviors, we advise you to undergo another test at six months to thoroughly rule out HIV.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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What temperature does AIDS fever reach?

People with AIDS, especially in the late stages of the disease, are indeed prone to fever, which can manifest as either high or low-grade fevers. The severity of the fever and its occurrence are greatly linked to various opportunistic infections. If there is a concurrent bacterial infection, it typically results in high fevers, whereas tuberculosis co-infections might cause low-grade fevers and night sweats. If there are other co-infections, such as viral infections, these can also lead to either high or low-grade fevers at times. It’s difficult to specify a definite temperature for fevers in AIDS patients, as it can vary.

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Written by Xiong Hong Hai
Infectious Disease
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Treatment of AIDS

In fact, the treatment of AIDS requires systematic and standardized antiretroviral therapy. Once an HIV infection is confirmed, whether in the early stage, acute phase, or late stage, it is necessary to start antiretroviral therapy as soon as possible. Generally, this involves combining two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors with either a protease inhibitor or an integrase inhibitor, or a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It is crucial to take the medication long-term and consistently without discontinuation, as stopping the medication can easily lead to a relapse of the condition.