Learning more about
HIV infection and how to care for yourself will allow
you to actively share in your health care decisions. Most health professionals
who treat people with this disease believe that those who are well-informed are
better able to fully take part in their medical care decisions.
You will feel more in control of your life if you understand:
- How HIV infection progresses.
- Which
medicines are available to fight the HIV infection (antiretroviral
therapy).
- Treatment (vaccines and other medicines) to help prevent
opportunistic infections.
- Symptoms to
watch for that may mean an opportunistic infection is
developing.
- Treatment to control opportunistic
infections.
- Self-care to prevent infections.
- Lifestyle
changes that may promote health.
Knowledge about HIV infection is changing rapidly. Ask your health
professional about how and where you can get additional information, or contact
one of the organizations listed in the Other Places to Get Help section of the
topic Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection. Discuss any questions you
have with your health professional.
