HIV and AIDS
By: Teresa Mitchell and Blaire Platero
Opportunistic Infections
WHAT ARE OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS?
In our bodies, we carry many germs - bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses. When our immune system is working, it controls these germs. But when the immune system is weakened by HIV disease or by some medications, these germs can get out of control and cause health problems. Infections that take advantage of weakness in the immune defenses are called "opportunistic". The phrase "opportunistic infection" is often shortened to "OI".
OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS AND AIDS
Getting an OI does not mean that you have AIDS. People who aren't HIV-infected can develop OIs if their immune systems are damaged. For example, many drugs used to treat cancer suppress the immune system.
HIV weakens the immune system so that opportunistic infections can develop. If you are HIV-infected and develop opportunistic infections, you might have AIDS.
SYMPTOMS OF OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS IN AIDS PATIENTS
- coughing and shortness of breath
- seizures and lack of coordination
- difficult or painful swallowing
- mental symptoms such as confusion and forgetfulness
- severe and persistent diarrhea
- fever
- vision loss
- nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting
- weight loss and extreme fatigue
- severe headaches
- coma