Must Know! How HIV Affects Your Skin
If you have HIV, your immune system will be attacked and affect other organs of the body. Skin is one of them. HIV causes some bad effects on your appearance. So, do you want to know how HIV affects your skin?
Skin problems in people with HIV
There are 3 main causes of skin problems in people with HIV:
- The immune system will be attacked by HIV
- Skin problems caused by infection
- Side effects of drugs
Some HIV-related conditions or side effects of treatment can be very serious and require immediate medical attention. One obvious sign of HIV / AIDS can be seen on the skin. A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to viruses such as herpes. Herpes can cause sores around the mouth or genitals.
1. The immune system will be attacked by HIV
In the first stage of HIV, patients can experience flu-like symptoms called seroconversion disease. This disease can include rashes that are not itchy, red and last for 2-3 weeks. During infection, the immune system becomes disrupted and can cause red and itchy skin. Skin problems can also occur if the immune system begins to improve from HIV care (especially acne and folliculitis) and appears to be a good sign of the return of immune capacity.
2. Skin problems caused by infection
Generally, there are 3 main classes of infections: bacterial, fungal or viral infections. Eczema (dry skin or irritation) has many causes and can be treated with antihistamines. To relieve dry skin conditions, avoid taking a long bath and use soap, shower gel and other irritant potential. Use aqueous cream (E45) or moisturizer.
Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) is characterized by a red skin area and a peeling rash. This condition can be caused by a fungal infection or eczema. Seborrheic dermatitis (inflammation of oil glands on the skin) often occurs in hairy parts of the body and looks like yellowish dandruff. This condition is common in symptomatic HIV. Dermatitis can be treated with steroid ointments, antifungal creams or tablets. Some scalp problems can be treated with anti-dandruff or anti-fungal shampoos.
Tinea is a fungal infection that causes the skin to peel off and the area is white and moist. This condition is treated with antifungal creams. Tea-tree oil dissolved effectively to alleviate this condition. Keep the skin dry and avoid irritants, such as deodorants. Folliculitis (small lumps or pustules in the follicles - hair roots) are skin infections, usually caused by fungi, which can be treated with antifungals. Impetigo is a skin condition caused by bacteria characterized by yellow, crusty and red wounds. Skin follicles can also be infected, causing ulcers or abscesses, which can be treated with antibiotics.
Small and pearl-like acne can be caused by viral infections such as smallpox virus, Molluscum contagiosum, or with fungal infections such as cryptococcosis. Molluscum can spread very quickly and require treatment at an HIV clinic.
The more information you know about your disease, the more you can control it. Don't forget to take notes in the journal, which contain anything about the treatment process, and record symptoms if you suspect you have a skin problem.
