NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH; Office of Alternative Medicine - Fact Sheet #7 - June 1994
Even though there is still no cure for HIV, over the last decade researchers have identified a number of drugs that slow progression of the virus, as well as therapies to treat the many opportunistic infections that attack people with HIV. The key to effective treatment is early detection and intervention. Some early treatments aim to strengthen the immune system, help patients reduce stress and maintain good nutritional practices and appropriate exercise regimens.
Taking an active role in any disease is an important part of treatment. Consideration of alternative therapies in conjunction with conventional medicine may offer additional opportunities for persons living with HIV/AIDS to be proactively involved in their treatment. People with HIV/AIDS in the United States already use many kinds of alternative approaches to treatment, including:
Herbal Medicine
Homeopathy
Acupuncture
Diet and Nutrition
Dietary Supplements
Body Work and Massage
Mind-body Therapies
Here are a few suggestions to follow before getting involved in any alternative therapy:
Obtain objective information about the therapy.
Inquire about the training and expertise of the person administering the treatment.
Consider the costs.
Discuss all treatments with your primary care provider, who needs this information in order to have a complete picture of your treatment plan.
