VA National Clinical Public Health Programs — HIV/AIDSwww.hiv.va.gov ![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) | Send to printer | ![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) |
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URL: http://www.hiv.va.gov/vahiv?page=treat-01-00 | ![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) | Treatment Decisions![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) | This guide is designed to be clicked through one screen at a time. If you prefer to see the entire lesson on a single page, go to "Print entire lesson." Use the "Contents" box at right to navigate the content. | ![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) |
![](images/transparent.gif) | HIV is a virus that can multiply quickly in your body. Even though no cure exists for HIV infection or the later stage of HIV disease known as AIDS, there are many different drugs that can slow down the virus, and we know that the slower the virus grows, the longer people live and the healthier they remain. Most people who take medicine for their HIV infection can now expect to live healthy lives for many years. Without treatment, however, HIV can make your immune system very weak. Your immune system is what allows your body to fight off bacteria and viruses. When it is weakened, you will have a hard time staying well. Deciding to start taking anti-HIV drugs is a very personal choice, and one that cannot be made alone. It is important to talk with your VA doctor, who can help you make a wise, appropriate decision.
This lesson can help you decide: |
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