Infectious diseases are diseases caused by microorganisms. These microorganisms can be viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Infectious diseases are also termed communicable diseases. Collectively, these diseases kill more people each year in the world than any other single cause.
While there are many, many different kinds of infectious diseases, among the most prominent serious infectious diseases are HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis C. Each of these dangerous diseases requires its own specialized treatment.
Washington Health Institute provides testing and treatment for HIV infection and other infectious diseases, along with many patient support options for those that are fighting an infectious disease battle.
HIV/AIDS
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s natural defense against health threats. AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. AIDS is not a separate disease from HIV, but the condition that develops if HIV progresses far enough.
HIV is spread through sexual activity and by contact with infected blood. Mothers can also pass on HIV to their unborn children.
Currently, there is no cure for HIV/AIDS. However, treatments have been developed that slow the advance of the disease. This is important, since the final stage of the disease, AIDS, usually results in death within a few years.
HIV treatments are called antiretroviral therapy, and are designed to lower the viral load (the amount of the virus) found in the blood. Besides slowing the advance of HIV, these treatments also drastically lower the chance a person will transmit HIV to someone else.
Fortunately, while HIV/AIDS is still a scary disease, it is not nearly as dangerous as it once was. Today, thanks to antiretroviral therapy, people with HIV can live long, happy lives.
With the support and treatment plans found at Washington Health Institute, patients suffering from HIV infection can and do live healthy, long lives. If you are in need of treatment, support and information about how to manage HIV, contact Washington Health Institute to schedule an appointment with one of our providers. We are here to help!