subject: Hiv And Lipodystrophy [print this page] As more and more research is done into the effects of HIV and the antiretroviral medications that are taken to inhibit the multiplication of the virus within the human body some interesting patterns and trends are being noted. It was previously seen that being infected with the virus led the body to waste away though this was primarily attributed to the effects of contracting conditions such as tuberculosis and other secondary infections. It has since been found that either HIV or HIV medications can cause a condition known as lipodystrophy.
Lipodystrophy is the term given to the redistribution or growth of body fat that is not in keeping with typical or normal patterns. It is currently unclear whether these changes of body fat distribution are to be attributed to the HIV infection itself or to the effects of the medications that are taken to combat the multiplication of the virus within the human body. It has been noted that developments in the medications used in combating HIV have led to fewer cases of lipodystrophy being noted with many infected and medicated individuals showing no evidence of the condition.
Lipodystrophy can take many forms and some possible changes that may be experienced are as follows:
An increase in belly fat
An increase in body fat in the neck area, shoulder, breasts and facial areas
The appearance of fatty bumps on the body
A loss of fat in the arms, legs and facial areas
There are two kinds of fat in the body, both of which can be affected by lipodystrophy. These types of fat are visceral fat which is found lining the organs of the body and subcutaneous fat which lies beneath the skin. An excess of visceral fat increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. Subcutaneous fat is generally lost in lipodystrophy but this is not life threatening though it can affect a persons self esteem.
Fat gain in the stomach area is typically indicative of visceral fat gain and can cause the abdomen of the affected individual to appear rounded and hard. A soft but large belly is often nothing to do with HIV and lipodystrophy. This kind of fat gain can affect the operation of the internal organs and can lead to fatty deposits within the blood along with increased cholesterol and a rise in blood sugar levels.
It has also been noted that fat may build up around the neck and shoulder area and form a hard lump that is often referred to as a buffalo hump. This kind of fat build up can cause problems with breathing and sleeping due to excessive discomfort. A build up of fat in the breasts of women can cause back problems due to the added weight on the front of the body.
Small fatty deposits may also appear under the skin. These are called lipomas. They may appear anywhere on the body.
Affected individuals may also lose subcutaneous fat in the facial area, arms and legs which may make them appear gaunt and make the muscles and veins appear more pronounced. This is not dangerous to the health of the infected individual but can cause psychological harm in the form of anxiety and a loss of self confidence.
If you are experiencing any of these changes, speak to your medical practitioner about your treatment options.
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