HIV/AIDS and Eye Health | World AIDS Day

HIV/AIDS occurs due to a virus that affects the immune system. Throughout the years, better education and information shed light on this disease. We now understand more about HIV and AIDS.
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One thing we know is that people with HIV and AIDS are at an increased risk of various types of infections and diseases, including eye diseases.

December 1st is World’s AIDS Day, and it is a good time to understand how HIV/AIDS can affect your eyes and what you can do to protect your vision. ​
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What are HIV and AIDS? 

HIV develops due to the human immunodeficiency virus. The virus attacks T cells in the body, which are part of the immune system. Eventually, it is harder for the immune system to fight infections.
Although HIV is currently not curable, it can be controlled with treatment. If not controlled, HIV can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Fortunately, medications available often control HIV. 

According to the World Health Organization, risk factors for contracting HIV include the following:

• Unprotected sexual intercourse
• Sharing contaminated needles
• Having other STDs, such as herpes, chlamydia, or syphilis 

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​Eye Conditions Related to HIV

Since HIV affects the immune system, any part of the body can be affected, including the eyes. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, about 70 percent of people with AIDS develop some type of eye problems.

In some cases, eye diseases occur due to opportunistic infections. Eye conditions associated with HIV/AIDs include the following:

HIV retinopathy: HIV-related retinopathy involves damage to the blood vessels in the retina. The small vessels may bleed or become blocked. White spots, called cotton wool spots, can also develop on the retina due to the blocked vessels.

CMV retinitis: CMV retinitis is caused by the cytomegalovirus, which is more common in people that have AIDS. It involves inflammation of the retina. Although it cannot be cured, with treatment, the progression of the disease can be slowed. Symptoms include bleeding and decreased vision.

Herpes Simplex Keratitis: Herpes simplex keratitis is an eye infection caused by the herpes virus. The infection usually affects the epithelium, which is the outer layer of the cornea. If the disease progresses, it can cause corneal ulceration and can leave scarring. Symptoms include pain, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light.

Fungal infections: People with a compromised immune system are at an increased risk of fungal eye infections. Symptoms may include redness, eye discharge, and pain.

Squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva: This type of cancer involves the layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye. It can develop as a result of excessive exposure to UV rays, but it is also more common in people that are HIV positive. Symptoms include a yellow or white tumor on the inside of the eye. Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva usually involves surgery and chemotherapy. 
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Maintaining Healthy Vision With HIV

People with HIV should be proactive when it comes to their eye health. Since they are at an increased risk of certain eye conditions, it is essential to take certain steps to maintain healthy eyes and preserve vision. Consider the following suggestions:

Get regular eye exams: Comprehensive eye exams are important for everyone, but they are vital for people with HIV/AIDS. Regular eye exams help your doctor diagnose eye problems early, which is helpful in preventing vision loss. Ask your doctor how often you should have eye exams.

Take medications as prescribed: Medication is available to control HIV. Controlling HIV helps prevent the disease from getting worse and may decrease the risk of eye problems.

Follow your eye doctor’s treatment plan: Treatment for HIV-related eye diseases varies depending on the specific problem. Medication, laser treatment, and surgery may be options.

Maintain healthy habits: Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as not smoking, eating a diet high in antioxidants, and protecting your eyes from UV rays is beneficial for everyone and good for your eyes.

If you have any questions about how HIV can affect the eyes or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please call our office at 508-746-8600.