Q. What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) are related, but they represent different stages of the same disease process:

1. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus):
   - HIV is the virus that causes the infection. Once a person becomes infected with HIV, the virus attacks and gradually weakens the immune system by destroying CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for the immune system's proper functioning. HIV is a lifelong infection, and with proper medical care, the progression of the disease can be controlled.

2. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome):
   - AIDS is the advanced stage of HIV infection. It is diagnosed when the immune system becomes severely damaged, and the CD4 cell count falls below a certain threshold, or when certain opportunistic infections or cancers occur. AIDS is characterized by a significant loss of immune function, making the individual more susceptible to a range of serious illnesses. Without treatment, HIV infection can progress to AIDS, but with effective medical care, the progression to AIDS can be delayed or prevented.

In summary, HIV is the virus that causes the infection, and AIDS is the later stage of the disease when the immune system is significantly compromised. Not everyone who has HIV will develop AIDS, especially if they receive appropriate medical care and treatment to control the progression of the virus. Early detection and management of HIV through antiretroviral therapy (ART) play a crucial role in preventing the advancement to AIDS and maintaining a person's overall health.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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