Home > loader > what causes viral load to increase while on treatment

what causes viral load to increase while on treatment

Release time:2023-06-27 15:52:42 Page View: author:Yuxuan
The viral load test is a significant measure of the level of HIV in the body, and it helps individuals to monitor their treatment progress. The viral load test measures the number of viral copies present in a blood sample. While receiving treatment, the viral load should decrease, and if it increases, it indicates that the treatment may be ineffective or other factors are contributing to this occurrence. Hence, this article will look at the primary reasons why viral load can increase while on treatment.

Non-compliance to Treatment

One of the major reasons why viral load increases while on treatment is due to the non-compliance to medication. Adherence to medication is crucial for HIV-positive individuals to suppress the virus and maintain a low viral load. Missed doses or refusal to take prescribed medication allows the virus to replicate, spread, and increase the viral load in the bloodstream. To mitigate this problem, HIV-positive individuals must take their medication as prescribed and adhere to their treatment plan.

Resistance to Antiretroviral Therapy

Resistance to medication also contributes to viral load increase during treatment. HIV strains can mutate and become resistant to antiretroviral therapy. This situation can cause the medication to be ineffective in suppressing the virus. When this happens, it is crucial to change the medications to avoid creating more viral strains resistant to medication and to increase the chances of suppressing the virus.

Infection with other STIs

Infection with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia, can also lead to an increase in viral load. These infections increase inflammation and cause immune activation, leading to the release of cytokines that stimulate HIV replication. Thus, individuals with HIV should take measures to prevent STIs by practicing safer sex, getting regular STI screening, and treating any STI infections promptly.

Compromised Immune System

Compromised immune systems can also contribute to an increase in viral load. Certain medical conditions, such as cancers, chronic infections, or autoimmune diseases, can affect the body's ability to fight the HIV virus. Additionally, factors such as malnutrition, stress, and lack of sleep can also weaken the immune system. Hence, it is crucial for individuals living with HIV to maintain a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and regular exercise to keep their immune systems robust.

Conclusion

A high viral load is an indication that the virus is replicating in the bloodstream, and it is critical to diagnose and treat the cause to prevent long-term damage to the body. While on treatment, viral load increase can occur due to non-adherence to medication, resistance to medication, infection with other STIs, and a compromised immune system. Thus, individuals living with HIV must take their medications as prescribed, avoid risky behavior that may lead to STI infections, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to improve their overall health and suppress the virus.
THE END

Not satisfied with the results?