Healthy Living With HIV-December/January 2011

K Kaposi’s Sarcoma Managing

aposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a cancer-like disease commonly caused by HIV infection, and is considered a sign of AIDS. KS on the skin is not considered life threatening, but lesions on the feet and legs can make it difficult to walk. If KS spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause more serious problems.

Fortunately, the rate of KS has dropped by over 80% since the introduction of strong antiretroviral therapy (ART). Good adherence to ART is viewed as the best treatment for active KS. In addition to ART, there are other treatments for KS in the skin and for different parts of the body. If KS has spread into internal organs, whole-body drug treatment is used.

To prevent KS, use ART appropriately to keep your immune system strong. If you notice new dark spots on your skin, have your healthcare provider examine them to see if you have KS. Source: TheBody.com (www.thebody.com/content/art6061.html).

Coping With an

HIV Diagnosis F

or most people, one of the hardest parts of adjusting to life with HIV is handling the emotional aspect of being newly diagnosed.

The good news is that effective HIV treatment is readily available. Thanks to many medical advances in the field of HIV, the infection is now considered a chronic disease, much like diabetes.

One of the unfortunate things that can happen when you are newly diagnosed is that other people may discriminate against you simply because of your health status.

These people are ignorant of the facts about HIV. The infection is no longer considered a death sentence as it once was. While it’s a serious disease to have, people with HIV are living longer, healthier lives than ever before. Most people with HIV can live their lives no differently than they had before their diagnosis.

Keep these things in mind if you’ve recently been diagnosed with HIV: ou are not alone. Regardless of your age, race, gender, or nationality, Y other people have gone through what you’re going through. Take strength in those numbers, and add their courage to your own.

December 2011/January 2012

Get Involved With

National Hand Washing Awareness

O

nly about two-thirds of adults in the United States wash their hands after using the bathroom, and many don’t wash their hands after changing diapers or after cleaning up after pets. Hand washing is important because it can help you avoid sicknesses and stop the spread of infectious bacteria, fungi, and other germs. This is especially important for people with HIV because they have weakened immune systems.

December 4th through 10th is National Hand Washing Awareness Week, an initiative designed to decrease the spread of infectious diseases by practicing good hand hygiene. The campaign promotes these simple hand washing principles: • Wash your hands when they’re dirty and before eating.

• Don’t cough or sneeze into your hands.

One of the most important things you can do for yourself is connect with others and seek the support you need.

Source: TheBody.com (www.thebody.com/content/art50030.html).

The Tools to Help Conquer Your

Depression

• Don’t put your fingers in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

For information on how to get involved with National Hand Washing Awareness Week, go to www.henrythehand.com.

Support is available. One of the most important things you can do for yourself is connect with others and seek the support you need. Your healthcare providers, community support groups, the internet, and other resources are out there to help you.

You can overcome depression and stress. Newly diagnosed people may feel depressed about their diagnosis or get panic attacks from the stress. Learn what triggers your symptoms so you can take steps toward reaching a happier frame of mind.

Many types of treatments are available for depression and anxiety, including psychiatric counseling and medications. Don’t be afraid to talk to a counselor, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist for help.

Feature:

Also in this issue: The editorial content for this brochure was developed and created solely by the Patient Education Center. The content does not necessarily represent the opinions and/or views of our advertisers.

Healthy Living With HIV is published by the Patient Education Center. Offices: 2445 Kuser Road, Suite 202, Hamilton, NJ 08690; and 180 Mount Airy Road, Suite 102, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920. Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

Publication of an advertisement or other product mention in Healthy Living With HIV should not be construed as an endorsement of the product or the manufacturer’s claims. Such advertising or product mentions should similarly not be construed as either influencing or controlling the editorial content of Healthy Living With HIV. The appearance of or reference to any person or entity in the editorial material (including photographs) in this brochure does not constitute an expressed or implied endorsement of the product advertised. Readers are encouraged to contact the product manufacturer with any questions about the features and/ or limitations of any product mentioned. The reader also is advised to consult appropriate medical literature and the product information currently provided by the manufacturer of each drug to verify indications, dosage, method, duration of administration, and contraindications.

Copyright 2011, Patient Education Center

PEC-HL-DEC-036

Get Involved With National Hand Washing Awareness Managing Kaposi’s Sarcoma Coping With an HIV Diagnosis

Visit us online at www.patientedu.org/hiv

K Kaposi’s Sarcoma Managing

aposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a cancer-like disease commonly caused by HIV infection, and is considered a sign of AIDS. KS on the skin is not considered life threatening, but lesions on the feet and legs can make it difficult to walk. If KS spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause more serious problems.

Fortunately, the rate of KS has dropped by over 80% since the introduction of strong antiretroviral therapy (ART). Good adherence to ART is viewed as the best treatment for active KS. In addition to ART, there are other treatments for KS in the skin and for different parts of the body. If KS has spread into internal organs, whole-body drug treatment is used.

To prevent KS, use ART appropriately to keep your immune system strong. If you notice new dark spots on your skin, have your healthcare provider examine them to see if you have KS. Source: TheBody.com (www.thebody.com/content/art6061.html).

Coping With an

HIV Diagnosis F

or most people, one of the hardest parts of adjusting to life with HIV is handling the emotional aspect of being newly diagnosed.

The good news is that effective HIV treatment is readily available. Thanks to many medical advances in the field of HIV, the infection is now considered a chronic disease, much like diabetes.

One of the unfortunate things that can happen when you are newly diagnosed is that other people may discriminate against you simply because of your health status.

These people are ignorant of the facts about HIV. The infection is no longer considered a death sentence as it once was. While it’s a serious disease to have, people with HIV are living longer, healthier lives than ever before. Most people with HIV can live their lives no differently than they had before their diagnosis.

Keep these things in mind if you’ve recently been diagnosed with HIV: ou are not alone. Regardless of your age, race, gender, or nationality, Y other people have gone through what you’re going through. Take strength in those numbers, and add their courage to your own.

December 2011/January 2012

Get Involved With

National Hand Washing Awareness

O

nly about two-thirds of adults in the United States wash their hands after using the bathroom, and many don’t wash their hands after changing diapers or after cleaning up after pets. Hand washing is important because it can help you avoid sicknesses and stop the spread of infectious bacteria, fungi, and other germs. This is especially important for people with HIV because they have weakened immune systems.

December 4th through 10th is National Hand Washing Awareness Week, an initiative designed to decrease the spread of infectious diseases by practicing good hand hygiene. The campaign promotes these simple hand washing principles: • Wash your hands when they’re dirty and before eating.

• Don’t cough or sneeze into your hands.

One of the most important things you can do for yourself is connect with others and seek the support you need.

Source: TheBody.com (www.thebody.com/content/art50030.html).

The Tools to Help Conquer Your

Depression

• Don’t put your fingers in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

For information on how to get involved with National Hand Washing Awareness Week, go to www.henrythehand.com.

Support is available. One of the most important things you can do for yourself is connect with others and seek the support you need. Your healthcare providers, community support groups, the internet, and other resources are out there to help you.

You can overcome depression and stress. Newly diagnosed people may feel depressed about their diagnosis or get panic attacks from the stress. Learn what triggers your symptoms so you can take steps toward reaching a happier frame of mind.

Many types of treatments are available for depression and anxiety, including psychiatric counseling and medications. Don’t be afraid to talk to a counselor, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist for help.

Feature:

Also in this issue: The editorial content for this brochure was developed and created solely by the Patient Education Center. The content does not necessarily represent the opinions and/or views of our advertisers.

Healthy Living With HIV is published by the Patient Education Center. Offices: 2445 Kuser Road, Suite 202, Hamilton, NJ 08690; and 180 Mount Airy Road, Suite 102, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920. Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

Publication of an advertisement or other product mention in Healthy Living With HIV should not be construed as an endorsement of the product or the manufacturer’s claims. Such advertising or product mentions should similarly not be construed as either influencing or controlling the editorial content of Healthy Living With HIV. The appearance of or reference to any person or entity in the editorial material (including photographs) in this brochure does not constitute an expressed or implied endorsement of the product advertised. Readers are encouraged to contact the product manufacturer with any questions about the features and/ or limitations of any product mentioned. The reader also is advised to consult appropriate medical literature and the product information currently provided by the manufacturer of each drug to verify indications, dosage, method, duration of administration, and contraindications.

Copyright 2011, Patient Education Center

PEC-HL-DEC-036

Get Involved With National Hand Washing Awareness Managing Kaposi’s Sarcoma Coping With an HIV Diagnosis

Visit us online at www.patientedu.org/hiv

The Tools to Help Conquer Your

Depression

D

epression is a mood disorder that is much, much more than just sadness or grief. The feelings in depression are more intense and last longer than they should. National estimates suggest that 5% to 10% of the general population gets depressed, but estimates on the rates of depression for people living with HIV are as high as 60%.

One of the most important things to recognize is that being depressed is not a sign of weakness. It doesn’t mean that you’re going crazy or that you just have to “get over it.” And you should never expect to be depressed because you have HIV. There are many causes of depression, including events in your daily life and chemical changes in the brain. Depression can also result as a side effect of medications that you use to treat chronic diseases, including HIV, or from other physical disorders that you may also be suffering from.

Get the Facts!

Depression often gets overlooked, but it’s a serious medical condition. It affects thoughts, feelings, and the ability to function in everyday life. Depression can occur at any age. It typically results from abnormal functioning of the brain, but the risk for depression is also affected by an interaction between a genetic predisposition and life history. Regardless of its origins, depression can limit the energy needed to keep focused and stay healthy. Although treatments can help with symptoms in most individuals who receive therapies for depression, less than half of depressed people get the help they need.

For those living with HIV, depression can wreak more havoc.

Depressed people with HIV are at higher risk for missing doses of their antiretroviral therapies. Research also shows that depression may accelerate the progression of HIV to AIDS. Furthermore, it might cause some latent viral infections to become active. In some cases, depression may raise the risk of engaging in risky behaviors

Depression is a common condition for people living with HIV. If left untreated, depression can have severe consequences. The earlier you work with your healthcare provider to overcome your depression, the sooner you’ll be able to deal with it and improve your life.

that are prone to transmitting HIV to others. Just as important, depression can interfere with your ability to enjoy life. Unfortunately, many HIV specialists have not been trained to recognize depression.

In some cases, it may actually be mistaken for signs of advancing HIV.

Spot the Signs Symptoms of depression will vary from person to person, but patients can be their own advocates by knowing the warning signs of depression (Table). Most healthcare providers recognize that people are depressed if they report feeling blue or having very little interest in daily activities. If these feelings go on for 2 weeks or longer and the hallmark symptoms of depression are prevalent, the person is probably depressed.

Many different factors have been identified as potential causes of depression, including female gender and a personal or family history of mental illness, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse. Some of the medications you take may also play a role in your depression. Other diseases, like anemia or diabetes, can cause symptoms that look like depression. People who are infected with both HIV and hepatitis B or C are also more likely to be depressed, especially if interferon is being used to treat hepatitis B or C.

Treatments Can Help Depression can be treated with lifestyle changes, alternative therapies, and/or with antidepressants. Lifestyle changes may include regular exercise, increased exposure to sunlight, stress management, counseling, and improving sleep habits. Be careful when using alternative treatments, especially St. John’s Wort, because they may interfere with how your HIV drugs work. Some depression responds best to antidepressants, but they too can interact with some antiretroviral

therapies. They must be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider who is familiar with your HIV treatment. He or she can help you select the therapy or combination of therapies that will be most appropriate for you. No matter what, don’t try to self-medicate with alcohol or illegal drugs. These can make depression worse and create additional problems.

Recovery from depression takes time, but be patient and get treatment if you’re feeling depressed. Together with your healthcare provider, you can overcome depression and improve your quality of life.

Table

Symptoms of Depression

Listed below are some symptoms of depression, but remember that these will vary from person to person. If 5 or more of these symptoms are present every day for at least 2 weeks and interfere with routine daily activities (eg, work, self-care, childcare or social life), seek an evaluation for depression.

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.

• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex.

• Decreased energy, fatigue, or being “slowed down.”

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.

• Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping.

• Appetite and/or weight changes.

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.

• Restlessness or irritability.

Source: TheBody.com (http://www.thebody.com/content/art6295.html).

The Tools to Help Conquer Your

Depression

D

epression is a mood disorder that is much, much more than just sadness or grief. The feelings in depression are more intense and last longer than they should. National estimates suggest that 5% to 10% of the general population gets depressed, but estimates on the rates of depression for people living with HIV are as high as 60%.

One of the most important things to recognize is that being depressed is not a sign of weakness. It doesn’t mean that you’re going crazy or that you just have to “get over it.” And you should never expect to be depressed because you have HIV. There are many causes of depression, including events in your daily life and chemical changes in the brain. Depression can also result as a side effect of medications that you use to treat chronic diseases, including HIV, or from other physical disorders that you may also be suffering from.

Get the Facts!

Depression often gets overlooked, but it’s a serious medical condition. It affects thoughts, feelings, and the ability to function in everyday life. Depression can occur at any age. It typically results from abnormal functioning of the brain, but the risk for depression is also affected by an interaction between a genetic predisposition and life history. Regardless of its origins, depression can limit the energy needed to keep focused and stay healthy. Although treatments can help with symptoms in most individuals who receive therapies for depression, less than half of depressed people get the help they need.

For those living with HIV, depression can wreak more havoc.

Depressed people with HIV are at higher risk for missing doses of their antiretroviral therapies. Research also shows that depression may accelerate the progression of HIV to AIDS. Furthermore, it might cause some latent viral infections to become active. In some cases, depression may raise the risk of engaging in risky behaviors

Depression is a common condition for people living with HIV. If left untreated, depression can have severe consequences. The earlier you work with your healthcare provider to overcome your depression, the sooner you’ll be able to deal with it and improve your life.

that are prone to transmitting HIV to others. Just as important, depression can interfere with your ability to enjoy life. Unfortunately, many HIV specialists have not been trained to recognize depression.

In some cases, it may actually be mistaken for signs of advancing HIV.

Spot the Signs Symptoms of depression will vary from person to person, but patients can be their own advocates by knowing the warning signs of depression (Table). Most healthcare providers recognize that people are depressed if they report feeling blue or having very little interest in daily activities. If these feelings go on for 2 weeks or longer and the hallmark symptoms of depression are prevalent, the person is probably depressed.

Many different factors have been identified as potential causes of depression, including female gender and a personal or family history of mental illness, alcohol abuse, and substance abuse. Some of the medications you take may also play a role in your depression. Other diseases, like anemia or diabetes, can cause symptoms that look like depression. People who are infected with both HIV and hepatitis B or C are also more likely to be depressed, especially if interferon is being used to treat hepatitis B or C.

Treatments Can Help Depression can be treated with lifestyle changes, alternative therapies, and/or with antidepressants. Lifestyle changes may include regular exercise, increased exposure to sunlight, stress management, counseling, and improving sleep habits. Be careful when using alternative treatments, especially St. John’s Wort, because they may interfere with how your HIV drugs work. Some depression responds best to antidepressants, but they too can interact with some antiretroviral

therapies. They must be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider who is familiar with your HIV treatment. He or she can help you select the therapy or combination of therapies that will be most appropriate for you. No matter what, don’t try to self-medicate with alcohol or illegal drugs. These can make depression worse and create additional problems.

Recovery from depression takes time, but be patient and get treatment if you’re feeling depressed. Together with your healthcare provider, you can overcome depression and improve your quality of life.

Table

Symptoms of Depression

Listed below are some symptoms of depression, but remember that these will vary from person to person. If 5 or more of these symptoms are present every day for at least 2 weeks and interfere with routine daily activities (eg, work, self-care, childcare or social life), seek an evaluation for depression.

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.

• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex.

• Decreased energy, fatigue, or being “slowed down.”

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.

• Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping.

• Appetite and/or weight changes.

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.

• Restlessness or irritability.

Source: TheBody.com (http://www.thebody.com/content/art6295.html).