What is AIDS?
AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is the result of an infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (also called HIV). This virus attacks cells of the immune system, nervous system, and other body systems. The cells that are attacked and damaged by the infection no longer work properly.
AIDS can cause some serious nervous system problems. The nervous system includes your brain, spinal cord, and other nerves. These problems can be one of the most challenging aspects of the disease. They may happen when:
Dementia is a common type of mental change caused by the AIDS virus. Early symptoms include slowed thinking, and poor short-term memory and concentration. You may have changes in behavior and physical coordination. If the problem is serious, you may need to quit work and may have trouble caring for yourself.
Two other common brain conditions in people with AIDS are lymphoma and infection with toxoplasma. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph tissue that can occur in the brain. Toxoplasma is a parasite found in cat feces and raw meat. It causes patches of tissue death in the brain. These problems cause headaches, seizures, and sluggishness. They are diagnosed with a brain scan and blood tests. Sometimes a brain biopsy is needed.
The AIDS virus may also damage the spinal cord. When your spinal cord is damaged you may have leg weakness and lose control of your bladder. Other nerves may be damaged, causing symptoms of weakness, numbness, tingling, and burning pain in the limbs. These damaged nerve cells cannot repair themselves. Even if the AIDS virus is brought under control, the damage may be permanent.
The antiviral drugs used to treat HIV infection may help slow the development of dementia. Antidementia drugs may also help you have less memory loss and confusion.
Infection with toxoplasmosis may be prevented by taking a combination of medicines called trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.
If you have AIDS, you should get medical care right away for any new symptoms, such as:
To learn more, call your local AIDS organization or the National AIDS 24-hour Hotline at 800-342-2437.
Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File BRN3400F.HTM Release 9.0/2006
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