Stay Healthy Longer: Fight Infections

People with HIV can get many infections (called opportunistic infections, or OIs). Many of these illnesses are very serious, and they need to be treated. Some can be prevented. This booklet explains what you can do to help prevent and treat these infections -- and stay healthy longer. These are the parts of the body that can be harmed and the medical name for each infection.

How to Help Yourself

Go to a clinic or doctor for regular check-ups. That way, you can spot problems early and get help right away. Keep your body's immune system (its defense against disease) as strong as you can. This means eating healthy foods, getting enough rest and exercise, and staying away from alcohol, cigarettes, and street drugs. It may also mean taking medicine, even when you feel well. Women with HIV should have regular pelvic exams. Be sure to ask your doctor or clinic nurse how often you should have a Pap smear. Watch for signs of infection, and report them right away. Call the doctor or clinic if you notice any of these problems: Diarrhea Cough Sores Persistent or severe heada or your doctor right away if you think you might be sick. If you need to take medicine, be sure you know how and when to take it.

How To Find Out More

Here are some numbers to call to learn more about these infections and their treatment: 1-800-342-AIDS (1-800-342-2437) You can ask questions and get more information about HIV-linked infections. You can also find out about support groups, treatment centers, and services for people with HIV. 1-800-TRIALS-A (1-800-874-2572) You can find out about research studies for infections linked to AIDS -- which drugs are being tested, where the studies take place, and who is doing the research 1-800-AIDS-NIH (1-800-243-7644) Call Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) to find out about studies being done at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center.