In This Article:
- About a million people in the U.S. live with HIV, and about 1 in 7 don’t realize they are infected. But if you are diagnosed, there are still many ways to live a long and healthy life.
- Visit a doctor to start HIV medications called antiretroviral therapy (ART) immediately after your diagnosis, even if you do not feel sick. You can also get medications that will prevent others from receiving the virus. Enroll and stay in health insurance, as well.
- Taking an active role in your self-care is essential to keeping you healthy longer. Eat fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, grains and lean protein, and exercise often.
Your management team has somehow managed to develop a culture throughout the Arizona Burn Center that is something I wanted to compliment you for … It is one that treats the patient as a special person. Whether it was the nursing staff, the physical therapists or the physicians, they all shared the same understanding – the importance of the patient and how to deliver the best possible overall care.
While there is still no cure for HIV/AIDS, it is definitely possible to manage the disease and live a long healthy life. We recommend taking these steps first:
See a medical provider promptly, even if you don’t feel sick.
It’s important to start HIV medicines, called antiretroviral therapy (ART), as soon as possible. ART prevents HIV from multiplying in the body, keeping your immune system strong. (Source: S Department of Health and Human Services(Open Link in new window))
Get and stay enrolled in health insurance.
There are many resources available to help individuals receive health care services, even for those not currently employed or eligible for insurance. At Valleywise Health, we can connect you to these resources, so you can take ART and live a long and healthy life. (Source: Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program(Open Link in new window))
Protect others.
Taking HIV medicines daily and maintaining an undetectable level of virus in your blood can help to prevent passing the infection on to others. In addition, there is preventative medicine that your HIV-negative sex or drug partners can take to prevent getting the virus. At Valleywise Health, we can provide both treatment for you and preventative medication for your partner. (Source: gov(Open Link in new window))
Change your Diet.
Taking an active role in your care is essential to keeping you healthy longer. Eat fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables grains and lean protein. (Source: U.S Department of Health and Human Services(Open Link in new window))
Looking for more help? Valleywise Health is the largest provider of HIV-related medical care for adults in Arizona. Make an appointment today at 1 (833) VLLYWSE.
