Other health conditions

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People living with HIV also live with other health conditions. Some of these are more prevalent amongst those of us who have had HIV for some time. 

This section is grouped according to the health 'areas' or body systems of most relevance to PLHIV. Articles that sit outside of these areas are featured in the sliding panel below.

For advice on maintaining good health see Healthy living.

Heart health

There are many preventative measures people living with HIV can take against heart disease such as eating healthily and exercising regularly. And if you smoke – quit! HIV, especially when untreated over a long period of time, causes inflammation that can affect the cardiovascular system. Some HIV...

Liver health and hepatitis

Treatment for hepatitis C has improved significantly over recent years and many people living with HIV clear the disease without treatment. However, hepatitis C (HCV) is one of the most common co-infections among PLHIV ­– an estimated 13% of PLHIV in Australia also have HCV . A blood-borne virus,...
An interactive infographic

Sexual health

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are passed during sexual contact. Some STIs present no symptoms. However, having one can increase the risk of passing on HIV which is why screening is important. Most STIs can be diagnosed quickly and are easily treatable . The most common STIs include...

Anal health

Symptoms of anal problems include discomfort, itchiness or pain, discharge or bleeding, lumps, bumps, ulcers or sores. If you have any of these symptoms seek professional advice right away. Vaccinating against Human papillomavirus and incorporating an anal screening exam into your regular STI check...

Brain health

Since the advent of antiretroviral treatment, severe dementia among people living with HIV is relatively rare. However, about 20% of people with HIV can experience mild HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, or HAND. HAND is the umbrella term used to describe problems experienced by PLHIV...

Living with diabetes

Although diabetes is a chronic disease, it is also a treatable condition. There are two types of diabetes : type 1 and type 2 (the latter is most commonly associated with HIV). Some HIV medication raises blood glucose and cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of developing diabetes . Symptoms...