HIV lesions are basically abnormal growths on the skin which may result from the HIV itself (opportunistic diseases) or the medication plan in people suffering from HIV. A skin lesson appears as a discolored area, a bump or an ulcer that develops just under the skin. People suffering from HIV are prone to lesion infection because of a weakened immune system. For more information, try contacting this clinic at (03) 9068 5270.
The lesion may be as a result of fungal, bacterial or viral infection. The severity of skin lesion development varies from a small area to dozens or more patches of skin that are affected.
Diagnosis
A dermatologist will go through medical history and examine the lesion. If it is unclear, a skin biopsy is done. A skin biopsy involves getting a sample from the lesion by scraping and examining the cells under the microscope. This procedure does not treat the skin condition but helps narrow down the cause of the lesion hence appropriate treatment plan.
Symptoms
Since people suffering from HIV experience what is known as opportunistic infections, it is really difficult to group the types of skin rashes or lesion they are more likely to experience. Symptoms that accompany skin lesion include:
- Dizziness and exhaustion
- Swollen and sore lymph nodes
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms — chills, muscle aches, feeling ill and mucous membrane in the mouth
- Swelling of the mouth walls and tongue.
- Blisters and rashes on the skin
When To See A Doctor?
First of all, it is important you know your HIV status. If you develop a skin rash and you are unsure of the cause and think you may have been exposed to HIV, seek medical assistance as soon as possible. HIV is transmitted through vaginal fluids, semen, infected blood or breast milk. If you see skin patches and experience flu-like symptoms, you have all the reasons to seek medical assistance though this doesn’t mean you have HIV.
Treatment
- Medication
Advancements in immune system preservation and viral control have made HIV lesion infections less severe. One effective method is medication. Over the counter medicine such as diphenhydramine helps in reducing the size of the patch and itchiness. If the lesion is serious, prescribed medication from the doctor is important.
- Lifestyle
Changes in lifestyle may help suppress the symptoms that come with skin lesions. For instance, avoiding direct sin rays and excess heat. Avoiding hot showers is good as the hot water worsens the condition.
It is no secret people suffering from HIV have a high probability of experiencing skin lesion. However, a change in diet, soap or medication may coincide with skin lesion development. In this case, an allergy may the contributing factor. People living with HIV should consult their health provider if they spot the development of rashes that they are unsure of.
