Living with HIV does not only affect the immune system. It also increases the risk of other infections and long-term health conditions. This is because HIV weakens the body’s defences and some HIV medicines may have side effects that affect other organs.
If you are living with HIV and notice new or unexplained symptoms, you can get timely care and personalised medical advice from licensed doctors through Hope Plus. Early treatment helps prevent complications and keeps you healthier for longer.
Common Infections in People Living with HIV
HIV makes it easier to get other infections such as:
- Malaria, which can be more severe in people with low immunity
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis or gonorrhoea
- Other bacterial or viral infections that would normally be mild in people without HIV
These infections are treated in the same way as for the general population, but it is important to start treatment as early as possible.
Non-Communicable Diseases and HIV
People living with HIV are also at higher risk of developing long-term conditions that are not caused by infections. These include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Depression and other mental health conditions
Regular check-ups are important so these conditions can be detected and treated early.
Cervical Cancer Screening for Women with HIV
Women living with HIV have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. Because of this, it is recommended that:
- All women are screened for cervical cancer when they first enrol in HIV care
- Screening is repeated every year using a simple test called Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), which can be done at many health centres in Uganda
Early detection saves lives, and regular screening is one of the best ways to prevent serious complications.
