HIV – Associated

FOR PATIENTS

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS & IMPACT
OF HIV-ASSOCIATED WASTING?

3 key symptoms

There are 3 key elements of HIV-associated wasting:

lbm

LOSS OF LEAN BODY MASS (LBM)

People living with HIV have changes in the way the body builds and breaks down LBM. LBM is your total body composition without fat. Losing LBM leads to decreased energy and physical endurance.

weightloss

UNINTENTIONAL
WEIGHT LOSS

HIV-associated wasting causes people to lose weight without trying. Their clothes may fit more loosely, and friends, family, and coworkers may comment that they look different.

activity

DECREASED PHYSICAL ENDURANCE

Some people with HIV-associated wasting get tired more quickly than they used to and find they can no longer complete tasks.

Who may be affected?

There isn’t just one type of person who experiences these symptoms of
HIV-associated wasting. The condition can affect a variety of people living
with HIV, including if you:

  • are newly diagnosed
  • are a long-term survivor
  • have your virus well-controlled on antiretroviral therapy (ART)
  • are on ART and are losing weight without trying
  • are on ART and have, or have had, an HIV/AIDS-related infection
  • are living with advanced HIV disease
  • are on ART, but your viral load has not gone down
  • have been prescribed ART, but are not taking it as directed

View information about the potential causes of HIV-associated wasting.

READ CAUSES

Explore resources and videos to learn more about HIV-associated wasting and tips that may help manage the condition.

SEE RESOURCES