HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections and complications, including those that affect the eyes. If left untreated, HIV can lead to severe eye conditions that may cause vision problems or even blindness. Here are three dangerous eye conditions associated with HIV.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
1. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Retinitis
CMV retinitis is one of the most serious eye complications in people with advanced HIV (AIDS stage). CMV is a virus that remains inactive in the body but can become active when the immune system is weak.
How It Affects the Eyes:
Causes inflammation of the retina, leading to blurry vision, floaters, or dark spots in vision.
Can result in retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent blindness if untreated.
Progresses quickly in individuals with a low CD4 count (below 50 cells/mm³)
Prevention and Treatment:
People with advanced HIV should have regular eye exams to detect CMV early.
Antiviral medications like ganciclovir and valganciclovir help control CMV.
Starting or maintaining antiretroviral therapy (ART) can strengthen the immune system and prevent CMV from developing.
2. Kaposi’s Sarcoma of the Eye
Kaposi’s Sarcoma is a type of cancer linked to human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) and is more common in people with AIDS. While it usually affects the skin, it can also appear on the eyes.
How It Affects the Eyes:
Appears as red or purple lesions on the eyelids, conjunctiva, or inside the eye.
Can cause discomfort, irritation, or vision obstruction.
If left untreated, it may spread and cause more severe health issues.
Prevention and Treatment:
Regular eye check-ups help detect early signs of Kaposi’s Sarcoma.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) helps boost the immune system and reduce the risk.
Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery may be needed for severe cases.
3. Toxoplasmosis Retinitis
Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which can infect the eyes if the immune system is weak. People with HIV are at higher risk of developing ocular toxoplasmosis.
How It Affects the Eyes:
Causes severe eye inflammation and damage to the retina.
Symptoms include blurry vision, eye pain, floaters, and sensitivity to light.
If untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.
Prevention and Treatment:
Avoid eating undercooked meat and exposure to cat feces, which carry the parasite.
Treatment involves antiparasitic medications like pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine.
ART helps reduce the risk by strengthening the immune system.
Conclusion
People living with HIV must take eye health seriously, as opportunistic infections and complications can lead to vision loss or blindness. The best way to prevent these conditions is by starting and adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART), attending regular eye check-ups, and seeking early treatment for any eye symptoms.
