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DESCRIPTION
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a major failure of the body's immune system (immunodeficiency) caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This failure decreases the body's ability to fight infection and suppress multiplication of abnormal cells, such as cancer. It affects the immune system, including special blood cells (lymphocytes) and cells of the organs (bone marrow, spleen, liver and lymph glands). These cells manufacture antibodies to protect against disease and cancer, AIDS is a secondary immunodeficiency syndrome resulting from HIV infection.
A Detailed Description of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)
FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Initial infection with HIV may produce no symptoms.
Fatigue.
Unexplained weight loss.
Recurrent respiratory and skin infections; fever.
Swollen lymph glands throughout the body.
Genital changes.
Enlarged spleen.
Diarrhea.
Mouth sores.
Night sweats.
CAUSES
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus); a virus (retrovirus) that invades and destroys cells of the immune system. HIV infection results in lowered resistance to other infections and some cancers.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Sexual contact with infected persons. Homosexual men are at the greatest risk.
Multiple heterosexual partners.
Use of contaminated needles for intravenous drug use.
Transfusions of blood or blood products from a person with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
Children born to an HIV infected mother.
Exposure of hospital workers and laboratory technicians to blood, feces, and urine of HIV positive patients. Greatest risk is with an accidental needle injury.
Note: Usual nonsexual contact does not transmit the disease, so a person with HIV infection is not a risk to the general population.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Avoid sexual contact with affected persons or known intravenous drug users.
Sexual activity should be restricted to partners whose sexual histories are known.
Use condoms for vaginal or anal intercourse (effectiveness is not proved, but their consistent use may reduce transmission).
The risk of oral sex is not fully known. Ejaculation into the mouth should be avoided.
Avoid intravenous self-administered drugs. Do not share unsterilized needles.
Avoid unscreened blood products (some foreign countries may not test the blood as the USA does).
Infected people or those in risk groups are advised not to donate blood, sperm, organs or tissues.
Everyone considered "at risk" or if you or your partner has had a sexual encounter outside of your monogamous relationship, you both should be periodically tested for HIV antibodies. It is a simple blood test, done discretely, and easy to perform. If the test comes back with a negative result, it is wise to have a second test done after a time lapse of several months. Some people do not show "positive" right away after being exposed to the virus since it can take time for the body to make antibodies to the virus, thus resulting in a negative result. This is why a second test at a later date is suggested.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
This condition is currently considered incurable. However, symptoms can be relieved or controlled and scientific research into causes and treatment continues. AIDS may not develop for years following a positive HIV test. Once ill, survival averages vary.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Serious infection in various body systems; cancer; death.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
If you test positive for HIV, arrange for repeat testing as soon as you can to rule out the possibility of a false positive result. If this is ruled out, immediately begin taking measures to boost your immune system. This is the single most important factor in disease prevention, and it is the best defense for the person with HIV. Correct diet, appropriate supplements, exercise, stress reduction, a proper environment, and a healthy mental outlook all play significant roles in keeping the immune system working adequately.
Seek out the care of a qualified health care provider - if possible, one who has a great deal of experience, in treating people with HIV. Research has found that the length of survival of a person with AIDS is closely linked to how much his or her health care provider knows about treating the condition. The median length of survival after diagnosis is 26 months for those whose health care providers have the most experience with AIDS, compared with 14 months for those whose health care providers have the least experience with AIDS.
Educate yourself. HIV and AIDS are complicated conditions, and treatment options are constantly changing and expanding. In order to stay well, it is vital to be as informed as possible.
Laboratory blood studies of blood cells and HIV antibodies test (may not become positive for 6 months after contact) can confirm the diagnosis. Newly diagnosed patients should be checked for other sexually transmitted diseases and infections, such as TB.
Obtain psychotherapy or counseling to cope with anxiety and depression about having the disease and the likelihood of death.
Hospitalization may be required when there are complications.
Some patients join in research programs (working to find improved treatments or vaccines) which may provide free care.
Early diagnosis is helpful. If you are at risk, obtain a medical evaluation even if you feel well. If you plan to be, or are pregnant, HIV testing can be helpful. If infected, special treatment during pregnancy can reduce risks of infecting the newborn.
Avoid exposure to people with infections, e.g., colds, the flu, or other easily transmitted infections.
Contact social agencies in your area about AIDS support groups.
Additional information is available from the National AIDS Hotline (800) 342-2437; Spanish version (800) 342-7432.
MEDICATION
Drugs are currently not effective in curing HIV or AIDS. A variety of drugs are used to prevent infection or control them as they develop.
Antiretroviral drugs (didanosine, stavudine, zalcitabine, zidovudine) and protease inhibitor drugs are used to treat HIV infection and AIDS and may slow the progression. Expert consultation on their use is advised. In an HIV infected pregnant woman, these drugs (e.g., zidovudine) reduce the risk of HIV infection in the newborn.
Research continues into new drugs and vaccines for HIV. Discuss with your health care provider about any new options that may be available to you for treatment.
WARNING! There are no drugs that have been proven absolutely safe for your developing baby. Use extreme caution in taking any medications during pregnancy and then these should only be used after all other methods have been tried and with the careful guidance of your midwife or health care provider.
HERBS & HOLISTIC SUGGESTIONS
Aloe vera contains carrisyn, which appears to inhibit the growth and spread of HIV. Use a pure, food grade product. Take 2 cups twice daily. If diarrhea occurs, reduce the dosage.
Astragalus boosts the immune system. Caution: Do not use this herb in the presence of a fever.
Black radish, dandelion root, and silymarin (milk thistle extract) protect and aid in repairing the liver, and also cleanse the bloodstream. The liver is the organ of detoxification and must function optimally. Use the extracts as directed on the product label.
Burdock root, echinacea, goldenseal, mullein, red clover, and suma are good for cleansing the blood and lymphatic systems, for viral and bacterial infections, and for boosting the immune system. Cayenne (capsicum) may also be helpful.
Caution: Do not take goldenseal on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, and do not use it during pregnancy. If you have a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or glaucoma, use it only under a health care provider's supervision.
Cat's claw enhances immune function, and has been shown to be helpful for people with AIDS and AIDS-related cancers. Cat's Claw Defense Complex from Source Naturals is a combination of cat's claw and other herbs, plus antioxidants such as beta-carotene, N-acetylcysteine, vitamin C, and zinc. Caution: Do not use cat's claw during pregnancy.
The seeds and peels of the Chinese cucumber inhibit cancer. The root is currently being used in AIDS research.
ClearLungs from Natural Alternatives is a Chinese herbal formula that is good for all lung disorders.
Essiac is a combination herbal tea that has been used in cancer treatment with good results. Essiac teas are available in health food stores or online.
Ginkgo biloba extract is good for the brain cells and circulation.
For mouth sores, place alcohol-free goldenseal extract on a pure cotton ball or piece of gauze and apply the cotton to the gums or mouth sores before going to bed. Leave it on overnight; sores and inflammation should heal in a few days with this treatment.
Licorice and wild yam root are good for endocrine gland function. Caution: Do not use this herb on a daily basis for more than seven days in a row. Avoid it completely if you have high blood pressure.
Magnolia vine berries increase oxygen absorption and boost the immune system. They coordinate the activities of the internal organs and help control the balance of the body's physiological processes.
Pau d'arco is a natural antibiotic, and assists immune function. It is also a powerful antioxidant and is good for destroying candida in the colon.
St. Johnswort contains two substances, hypericin and pseudohypericin, that inhibit retroviral infections, and could be useful in the treatment of AIDS.
Siberian ginseng helps bronchial disorders and boosts energy. Caution: Do not use this herb if you have hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, or a heart disorder.
ACTIVITY
Activities will depend on the state of health of each individual. Symptoms, such as fatigue or infections, can limit some activities.
Obtain as much fresh air and rest as possible. Rest is important. Obtain moderate amounts of sunshine. An exercise routine is also recommended.
Do not smoke, and stay away from those who do.
Avoid alcohol, noxious chemicals, and everything else that can damage the liver.
Always use a condom (latex, not sheepskin) and spermicide (spermicide kills HIV) for any sexual contact. If you use a lubricant with a latex condom, use only a water-based lubricant such as K-Y Jelly; Do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline), vegetable shortening (Crisco), hand lotion, or baby oil, as these substances can break down latex in a matter of minutes. Be aware, however, that even the proper use of a condom is not a guarantee against the transmission of HIV. If you are HIV positive, you need to inform any potential sexual partners of your HIV status so you both can take proper precautions to prevent the transmission of the virus to an uninfected person. If you knowingly transmit the virus to another person with the purpose of infecting them, whether by sexual encounters or by the use of your blood, you can be brought up on serious legal charges in a court of law.
DIET
Pay special attention to meeting your nutritional needs and requirements, and keep in mind that a higher than normal intake of nutrients will probably be necessary.
Maintain good nutrition. Malabsorption, altered metabolism and weight loss are common among patients.
Avoid raw eggs, unpasteurized milk or other potentially contaminated foods. Exercise caution in your choice of foods so as to avoid exposure to food borne illness. Food poisoning can be very dangerous for people with AIDS or HIV infections.
Increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat a diet consisting of 75 percent raw foods, organically grown if possible (avoid foods that have been treated with pesticides and other sprays), plus lentils, beans, seeds, nuts and whole grains, including brown rice and millet. Raw foods are particularly important because cooking depletes foods of their vital enzymes.
Eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower. Also consume yellow and deep-orange vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, squash, and yams.
Consume plenty of fresh live juices. Juicing is extremely beneficial for supplying nutrients.
"Green Drinks" made from leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and beet greens, and carrot and beet root juice, should be consumed on a daily basis, with garlic and onion added. Kyo-Green from Wakunaga is an excellent "green drink" product that contains chlorophyll, protein, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Take this drink three times a day.
Drink steam-distilled water only (not tap water), and lots of it - eight or more 8-ounce glasses daily - to flush out toxins from the body. All cells and organ systems need water. Drink plenty of water even if you are not thirsty. The organs and especially the brain, become dehydrated long before thirst develops.
Eat unripened papaya (including a few of the seeds), fresh pineapple, and Aspergillus oryzae (a type of fungus) frequently. These foods are good sources of proteolytic enzymes, which are crucial for proper digestion of foods and assimilation of nutrients. Without enzymes, the body cannot be supplied with the energy it needs for its activities. Enzymes can also be taken in supplemental form. These help in digestion in the lower stomach and intestinal tract.
Eat onions and garlic, or take garlic in supplemental form.
Add shiitake, reishi, and maitake mushrooms to the diet or take them in supplemental form.
Limit your intake of soybeans and soy products, which contain enzyme inhibitors, but do not completely eliminate them from your diet, as they are valuable sources of protein.
Eliminate from the diet colas, foods with additives and colorings, junk foods, peanuts, processed refined foods, saturated fats, salt, sugar and sugar products, white flour, all animal protein, and anything that contains caffeine.
Take supplemental fiber daily. Alternate between psyllium husks and freshly ground flaxseeds. Take psyllium with a glass of water and drink it quickly before it thickens. Note: Always take supplemental fiber separately from other supplements and medications.
Try using bee propolis and royal jelly to fight bacterial infections invading the lungs, mouth, throat, and mucous membranes.
Use coffee retention enemas to eliminate toxins and supply nutrients.
Determine what food sensitivities or allergies may be present. The best way to do this is to have yourself tested by a health care allergy professional. It is important to eliminate allergenic foods from the diet because they wreck havoc in the body, causing damage to the immune system.
AIDS / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Supplements
Information and help with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and AIDS, an incurable condition that weakens the body's ability to fight disease.
Olive Leaf Plus, Black Seed with Olive Leaf Extract and High Potency Garlic - 100 Caps
Combined, these herbs are a superior circulation and immune system support.Cerebral Cardiovascular Cleanser, 100% Natural, 500 mg Each - Fibrinolytic and Hemolytic - Qilong Yufeng - 60 Caps
Cerebral Cardiovascular Cleanser, Fibrinolytic and Hemolytic, is made of extracts of astragalus root, Chinese angelica root, common peony root, lumbricus (earthworm), cnidium, safflower flower and peach seed.SystemWell Ultimate Multisystem Immunity - 180 Tabs
Having trouble staying healthy? Are you feeling physically and mentally fatigued? Are your defenses constantly run down? You are not alone. Too often our immune systems are left weak by the lifestyle choices we make, leaving us vulnerable to germs, bacteria and other microorganisms that seemingly attack from all angles.Gr8-Dophilus Probiotic, NOW Foods 60 Vcaps
Gr8-Dophilus is a combination of 8 different species of beneficial bacteria designed by NOW Foods to support gastrointestinal health and immune system function.AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound), Vegetarian, 500mg each Vcap - 60 Vcaps
AHCC is a rich source of polysaccharides such as beta glucan 1,3 and activated hemicellulose produced by enzymatic modification of organic medicinal mushrooms, including shiitake.Silver Biotics Liquid, Silver Supplement - 8 fl. oz.
Silver Biotics was tested by researchers and was found to kill every strain of bacteria that it was tested against and that these bacteria, many of which have become resistant to antibiotics, cause many human ailments.L Carnitine Liquid Double Strength - 16 fl. oz.
NOW® L-Carnitine Liquid provides all of the extensive benefits of Carnitine in a highly absorbable liquid form. L-Carnitine Liquid is a non-essential amino acid that helps to maintain overall good health by facilitating the transfer of fatty acid groups into NOW® L-Carnitine 2X Liquid provides double (1g) the potency of some competing brands per serving size.L-Histidine, 500 mg - 60 Tabs
L-Histidine has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers & anemia.Alpha Lipoic Acid w/ Rosemary, Pharmaceutical Grade 50mg - 60 Caps
Alpha Lipoic Acid is central to recycling other antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and GSH glutathione. By "sparing" their destruction, Alpha Lipoate extends their antioxidant power. Being both water and fat soluble, lipoic acid is the "universal" antioxidant that can easily function in both cellular membranes and fluid media within and outside the cell.Shiitake Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Shiitake Mushroom is a mainstay in the Japanese diet - very high in nutrition. It contains 18 amino acids ( 7-8 of which are essential) and over 30 enzymes.Maitake Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
The unique chemicals in raw, cooked, and dried Maitake mushrooms may help boost immunity, fend off infections and fight cancer.Samento ( Uncaria Tomentosa ), Extra Strength (100 Times More Effective than regular Cat's Claw!), 0.5% POA, 600mg - 30 Caps
Samento is beneficial in the treatment of a wide range of immune system related conditions; these include but are not limited to cancer, arthritis, bursitis, rheumatism, allergies, ulcers, systemic candidiasis, all forms of herpes, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, intestinal disorders and HIV infection.Samento Liquid Extract (Uncaria Tomentosa), 0.5% POA - 1 fl. oz. (30 ml)
Samento is beneficial in the treatment of a wide range of immune system related conditions; these include but are not limited to cancer, arthritis, bursitis, rheumatism, allergies, ulcers, systemic candidiasis, all forms of herpes, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, intestinal disorders and HIV infection.Irwin Naturals Immuno Shield, Immune System Support, - 100 Gelcaps
Irwin Naturals multi-herb complex addresses two key areas, immune support and bacterial/viral control.Immune System Formula Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
The Immune System Formula can be used for AIDS, Auto-immune Diseases, and Cancer.Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges SilvaSolution - 90 Lozenges
Now you can get powerful liquid silver in the most convenient form ever with new SilvaSolution Silver and Zinc Lozenges.DMG Supplement N, N Dimethyl Glycine, 125mg - 100 Caps
NOW Foods' DMG Supplement is a methylated amino acid found in all cells. DMG is an antioxidant and methyl donor that has a number of beneficial effects. It has shown to have potential in increasing immune response to the flu and salmonella.Tri Amino / L Arginine, L Ornithine, L Lysine, 775mg - 120 Caps
Tri-Amino, an amino acid supplement, is a comprehensive product that combines three essential amino acids, L-Arginine, L-Ornithine, and L-Lysine into one easy-to-take formula.Garlic Oil Tincture, Alcohol Free Nature's Way - 1 fl. oz.
Garlic oil is often used to soothe the ear and as an antibiotic but most often used as a food and herb and also to lower serum cholesterol and blood pressure and to improve circulation as well as possibly inhibiting the growth of ulcer causing bacteria.Multi Vitamin and Multi Mineral without Iron, Complete Vitamin Supplement Nature's Way - 100 Caps
The vitamins and minerals in iron free MultiVitamin & MultiMineral play many important roles in the body: antioxidants to protect fats, cells and DNA, coenzyme precursors for energy production and metabolism, and cofactors for hormones and enzymes which regulate body processes.Quercetin w/ Bromelain, Hypoallergenic Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods - 800mg - 120 Vcaps
Our non-citrus Quercetin is non allergenic, with Bromelain to enhance the absorption of Quercetin.Cats Claw Standardized Extract, 335mg - 60 Caps
Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics in Peru, Austria, Germany, England, Hungary and Italy validate the traditional usage of Cat's Claw and indicate that this herb may be beneficial in ameliorating a host of modern day afflictions which have no answers from the orthodox medical arena. It is known to help nutritionally support the body's defenses, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant and build properties.Germanium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm - 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Germanium is a pure liquid Germanium supplement. Germanium raises the level of activity of various organs (facilitates oxygen uptake) and helps to expel harmful pollutants and arrest germ activity. Germanium serves as an electrical semiconductor, helping correct distortions in the electrical fields of the body.Burdock Root Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
An herbal treatment for psoriasis and a promising HIV herb. Burdock is also a good blood purifier.Echinacea Root Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Echinacea Root is also known as Purple Coneflower and considered very valuable by the North American Indians.Astragalus Root , 470mg - 180 Vcaps
Astragalus root is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body's functions. Astragalus is an important herb in Chinese medicine and is commonly included in Chinese cuisine.Cure For HIV And AIDS, By Hulda Clark, Ph.D., N.D
This book posits that the human intestinal fluke, a parasite, is the source of the HIV virus. Dr. Clark provides exact instructions for their cure, documented with 70 case histories.
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils A-B
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils C-E
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils F-L
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils M-P
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils Q-Z
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Blends & Resins
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Diffusers, Nebulizers, & Burners
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Kits
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has symptoms of HIV infection or has been at risk for getting the disease.
Infection occurs after diagnosis. Symptoms include fever, cough, diarrhea.
Other new symptoms develop (drugs used in treatment have many side effects).
HIV-AIDS EDUCATION & PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
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