No Time to Wait

The mission here is to encourage us to consider HIV as a disease that people can live with, and not simply die from. Siano, an HIV counselor and consultant writing with Lipsett ( Remember Me ), provides the necessary tools for those with the retrovirus to participate fully in their treatment. By monitoring symptoms and keeping track of blood work results, say the authors, the HIV-positive person can evaluate whether treatment is effective. They believe that the patient--not just the health care provider--should take an active role in making the medical decisions that lead to more successful treatments. They also discuss the anxiety and fear that accompany a diagnosis of HIV, as well as meditation techniques to manage its psychological impact. The first section of the book imparts fundamental information: how to choose health care providers; an explanation of the immune system; the workings of a retrovirus; how to assess treatment. Also included is a comprehensive table of HIV-related infections, with causes (agents of transmission) and diagnostic procedures. The main body of the book looks at the treatment of HIV, approached in two ways: with an antiviral to stop the virus, and with an immune modulator to boost the immune system. Among the options discussed are the familiar AZT, ddl and gamulin, and alternative therapies such as blue-green algae and shark cartilage. The last section of the book reviews nutritional concerns, means of infection control, and the mind-body connection to maintaining health. (June)