How do HIV/AIDS affect the nervous system?
HIV does not directly invade nerve cells (neurons) but puts their function at risk by infecting cells called glia that support and protect neurons. HIV also triggers inflammation that may damage the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) and cause symptoms such as:
- confusion and forgetfulness
- inability to concentrate
- behavioral changes
- headaches
- mood disorders (anxiety disorder and depression)
- movement problems (loss of movement control) including a lack of coordination and difficulty walking.
Damage to the peripheral nerves can cause progressive weakness and loss of sensation in the arms and legs. Research has shown that HIV infection can cause shrinking of brain structures involved in learning and information processing.
Other nervous system complications that can occur as a result of HIV infection or the drugs used to treat it include:
- pain
- seizures
- strokes
- shingles
- difficulty swallowing
- fever
- vision loss
- coma, and
- problems with bladder control or sexual function.
These symptoms may be mild in the early stages of AIDS but can become increasingly severe.
In children, the disease can cause:
- developmental delays
- loss of previously achieved milestones
- brain lesions
- nerve pain
- smaller than normal skull size
- slow growth
- eye problems, and
- recurring infections.
