• Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS): Symptoms & Management
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS): Symptoms & Management

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Lyme disease, caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium and spread through tick bites, is usually treatable with antibiotics. However, for some individuals, symptoms persist even after completing treatment. This condition is known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). PTLDS can be confusing and frustrating, both for patients and healthcare providers. Though the initial infection has been treated, lingering symptoms may impact daily life. This article explores what PTLDS is, its possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and current management strategies. What Is Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS)? PTLDS refers to a set of long-lasting symptoms that continue for 6 months or…

  • Antibiotic Treatment for Lyme Disease: Protocols and Duration
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions

    Antibiotic Treatment for Lyme Disease: Protocols and Duration

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most common tick-borne illness in North America and parts of Europe. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick (commonly called a deer tick). The good news is that Lyme disease is highly treatable with antibiotics, especially when caught early. However, treatment protocols vary depending on the stage of the disease, type of symptoms, and age or health status of the patient. This article breaks down the recommended antibiotic therapies, their duration, and what to expect during treatment. Why Early Treatment Matters Early-stage Lyme disease is…

  • Lyme Disease Testing: Understanding Limitations and Stages
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    Lyme Disease Testing: Understanding Limitations and Stages

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused primarily by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. While early treatment is highly effective, diagnosis can be tricky—especially if you don’t have the telltale bullseye rash. That’s where testing comes in. But Lyme disease tests aren’t always straightforward. They vary in accuracy depending on the stage of the disease, and interpreting results can be challenging. In this article, we’ll break down the types of Lyme disease tests, their limitations, and how they’re used during different stages of infection. How Lyme Disease Progresses (Why Stage Matters in Testing) Lyme disease progresses in three stages: Key…

  • Recognizing the Early Signs of Lyme Disease (Especially the Bullseye Rash)
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    Recognizing the Early Signs of Lyme Disease (Especially the Bullseye Rash)

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bite of an infected black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick). It’s most common in North America and parts of Europe, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Early recognition of Lyme disease is critical for successful treatment—and one of the most telling signs is the bullseye-shaped rash, known as erythema migrans (EM). However, not everyone develops this rash, and early symptoms can be easily mistaken for other illnesses. This article will help you understand the early warning signs, including the bullseye rash, and when to seek medical attention. What…

  • HIV and Aging: Unique Health Considerations
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    HIV and Aging: Unique Health Considerations

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Thanks to advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV are now living longer, healthier lives. In fact, more than half of all people living with HIV in many countries are over the age of 50. While this is a remarkable achievement in public health, it also introduces a new set of challenges: aging with HIV. Older adults with HIV face unique health considerations that go beyond managing the virus. These include an increased risk of age-related diseases, drug interactions, cognitive decline, and social or mental health issues. This article explores the intersection of HIV and aging, and…

  • Mental Health and HIV: Addressing Anxiety, Depression, and Stigma
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    Mental Health and HIV: Addressing Anxiety, Depression, and Stigma

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Living with HIV today is very different from it was decades ago. With the success of antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV has become a manageable chronic condition. However, many people living with HIV still face significant mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stigma. The emotional burden of an HIV diagnosis, along with societal judgment and internalized shame, can deeply affect a person’s mental well-being. Mental health is not separate from HIV care — it’s a critical part of living a healthy, fulfilling life. This article explores how HIV and mental health intersect, the impact of stigma, and practical strategies…

  • Common Opportunistic Infections and How to Prevent Them
    Blog - Prevention & Wellness

    Common Opportunistic Infections and How to Prevent Them

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction When the immune system is weakened—such as by HIV, certain cancers, or immunosuppressive medications—the body becomes more vulnerable to infections that a healthy immune system would typically fight off. These are referred to as opportunistic infections (OIs). For people living with HIV, especially those with a low CD4 count, OIs can lead to serious illness or even death if not prevented or treated early. The good news is that most OIs are preventable through medication, routine screenings, and healthy habits. This article explores the most common OIs, who is at risk, and practical strategies to prevent them. What Are…

  • HIV Testing: Types, Accuracy, and Where to Get Tested
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    HIV Testing: Types, Accuracy, and Where to Get Tested

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction HIV testing is the first step in protecting your health and the health of others. Whether you’re sexually active, sharing needles, or simply want peace of mind, knowing your HIV status empowers you to make informed decisions. Early diagnosis leads to early treatment, which in turn improves long-term health outcomes and prevents the transmission of diseases. This guide explains the different types of HIV tests, their accuracy, when to get tested, and where to find confidential testing services. 1. Why HIV Testing Matters 2. Who Should Get Tested for HIV? According to health organizations like the CDC and WHO:…

  • Living Well with HIV: Managing Health, Relationships, and Stigma
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions

    Living Well with HIV: Managing Health, Relationships, and Stigma

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction A diagnosis of HIV is not the end of life—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Thanks to advances in medicine and public understanding, people living with HIV today can live long, healthy, fulfilling lives. With consistent treatment, a supportive network, and the right information, HIV can be managed like many other chronic conditions. This article will guide you through the essentials of managing your health, building meaningful relationships, and overcoming the stigma associated with HIV. 1. Managing Your Health with HIV Start Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Immediately The most important step is starting ART as soon as possible. ART:…

  • Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U): The Science Explained
    Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U): The Science Explained

    September 30, 2025 - By 

    Introduction Imagine living with HIV and knowing that you cannot pass the virus to your sexual partners. That’s the life-changing message of U=U — Undetectable = Untransmittable. Backed by years of scientific research and endorsed by major health organizations worldwide, U=U means that people living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit the virus to others. This article breaks down the science behind U=U, what it means for people with HIV, and how it’s changing public health, relationships, and lives. What Does “Undetectable” Mean? When someone is on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and takes their medication consistently,…