Medical Marijuana Treatment For HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) affects approximately 37.9 million people around the world. These chronic, life-threatening conditions can result in unpleasant, severe symptoms that impact the quality of life for the patients with this condition.

However, many states across the country have approved medical marijuana as an effective treatment for HIV and AIDS. This alternative treatment can provide a number of benefits for HIV/AIDS patients, including pain relief, nausea control, and appetite increase.

What Is HIV/AIDS?

AIDS is a condition caused by the progression of HIV, a virus that can be transmitted through sexual activity, infected blood, or through pregnancy, breastfeeding, or childbirth. HIV/AIDS damages immune systems, harming the body’s ability to fight off infection. While there is no cure for HIV/AIDS, many modern medications can help slow its progression.

Symptoms for this condition vary depending on the state of the disease the patient is at. For example, people with acute HIV may develop fever, headache, and diarrhea, among other symptoms, 2 to 4 weeks after infection. People with AIDS are more likely to develop opportunistic infections and may experience sweats, chills, recurring fever, and weakness.

Treatment for these conditions can be difficult as well. Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, heart disease, weakened bones, and emotional problems, among others.