Did you know that the estimated number of HIV-positive individuals in the US is 1.2 million? Human immunodeficiency virus is known as HIV, and 13% of those who have it are unaware that they have it. While there isn’t a known cure for HIV and AIDS, there are a number of holistic and conventional treatments that can help manage the symptoms. A normal life expectancy similar to that of HIV-negative people can be increased with early detection, appropriate medical care, and a healthy lifestyle.
But before we go any further, there’s one thing you should know: if you want to use marijuana to treat your health problems while residing in the US, you will need a medical marijuana card. It’s simple to apply for a medical marijuana card; all you have to do is register online, and you can get your card in the comfort of your own home.
How Does HIV Spread Between Individuals?
Body fluids like blood, genital fluids, and breastmilk can spread an infection. About 80% of cases of HIV are transmitted through unprotected sexual contact. HIV infection can result from sharing tainted needles with an infected person. HIV can also be transferred from mother to kid through nursing.
To refute a few widespread misunderstandings, HIV is not spread by:
- Saliva
- Hugging
- Shaking hands
- Sharing toilet seats
- Air or water
- Sharing food/drinks
- Sneezes/coughs
HIV / AIDS Symptoms
Some people with HIV may not show any symptoms for more than ten years, but early symptoms can appear within a few days or weeks of exposure. The virus still has the ability to spread to other people even in the absence of symptoms.
Among the signs of HIV are:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Skin rashes
- Muscle/joint pain
- Persistent diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Nausea/loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Mouth/genital/anal sores
Not everyone with HIV will exhibit the same symptoms. It is crucial to remember that diagnosing HIV/AIDS cannot be done based only on symptoms. Diagnosing with the help of a qualified medical practitioner is the most accurate way to go.
Some pharmacies sell discrete at-home saliva testing kits for individuals who would prefer more privacy. One must wait 30 minutes before taking the test and refrain from eating or drinking.
Results can be obtained in 20 to 40 minutes by swiping the upper and lower gums and then inserting the applicator into a tube filled with liquid. False positive or false negative test results are still possible, even with a 92% test sensitivity performance. Further testing with a medical professional might be necessary if you have any doubts.
Please be aware that customers must be at least 17 years old to purchase the HIV rapid home test.
HIV / AIDS & Medical Marijuana
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, progresses to its final stage after approximately ten years of untreated HIV infection. Patients may use cannabis to alleviate symptoms of HIV/AIDS, including psychological distress, vomiting, weight loss, and nausea. This is one of the qualifying conditions for the medical marijuana program.
HIV positive marijuana users were the subject of a clinical trial at Columbia University, which found that cannabis use “increased daily caloric intake and body weight with little evidence of discomfort and no impairment of cognitive performance.” [Haney and others, 2007].
Over time, having a chronic illness may have a negative impact on one’s mental well-being and quality of life. In a survey of 252 HIV patients, San Mateo Medical Center in California discovered that 57% of them used cannabis to treat depression or anxiety.
Adults with HIV-associated sensory neuropathy—a painful, burning nerve sensation in the legs—were the subjects of one study on cannabis use. A 34% reduction in daily pain was reported by participants who smoked cannabis, and no serious adverse events were reported. [Abrams and others, 2007].
“Cannabis use was associated with lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers, consistent with specific anti-neuroinflammatory effects that may benefit HIV neurologic dysfunction,” according to another observational study on HIV-related inflammation (Ellis et al., 2020).
Celebrities with HIV / AIDS
Magic Johnson, a legendary basketball player and four-time NBA champion, disclosed in 1991 that he had contracted HIV through unprotected sex. There was a widespread belief at the time that heterosexual people hardly ever got HIV. Johnson made the decision to disclose his HIV status in an effort to raise awareness.
Charlie Sheen, who was once the highest paid TV actor, revealed that he had been diagnosed with HIV in a 2015 interview with NBC. Sheen made the decision to come out in an effort to support others and change the stigma attached to the illness. Sheen finds that taking four antiviral pills daily helps him control his illness.
The Ending Words!
In summary, medical marijuana has shown to be an effective treatment for HIV/AIDS patients, assisting in the reduction of symptoms, inducing appetite, and enhancing general quality of life. Access to medical marijuana should be made more widely available as research into the therapeutic potential of cannabis continues, as this will help those who suffer from this difficult condition and give them much-needed relief.
