#AsktheDoctor ;
Question: Dear Doctor, My mother, who is around fifty years old, received an HIV diagnosis a year back and began antiretroviral therapy right away.
Her viral load is under control, and she had been doing well recently. However, lately, she prefers spending much of her time alone, saying she is meditating. Yet, we've observed that she appears quite frail, seems older than her years, and has lost significant muscle mass.
She frequently stumbles when attempting to walk. What might be causing this issue?
Angella
Answer:
Dear Angela,
While the primary objective of treating individuals living with HIV, such as your mother, involves suppressing the virus using antiretroviral medications (ARVs), comprehensive HIV/AIDS care extends far beyond just administering these drugs.
It seems your mother should see a mental health professional as she is probably experiencing depression.
The most prevalent mental health issue among people living with HIV is depression, which is often accompanied by anxiety and substance use disorders like alcohol dependence.
Hence, every person living with HIV should be included in programs aimed at raising mental health awareness and preventing issues. Individuals who screen positive for mental health problems should receive timely treatment.
Regarding her physical state, it should be noted that one's chronological age might not align with their biological or physiological age.
Chronological age indicates the total years someone has lived, whereas biological age pertains to their physical condition and functional capabilities.
Muscle weakness and atrophy, referred to as "sarcopenia," is an age-related issue exacerbated by insufficient physical activity and poor dietary choices rather than maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet.
Sarcopenia can thus be categorized as a lifestyle-related condition akin to diabetes and cardiovascular issues like hypertension. This implies that individuals can potentially stave off sarcopenia or delay its onset through their dietary habits and overall lifestyle choices.
Even though you cannot change the passage of time, you have control over biological aging. Additionally, individuals such as your mother who live with certain viruses might experience accelerated biological aging due to ongoing cellular inflammation.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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