Paradoxical experiences of Ghanaian adolescents with HIV: physiological challenges

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in sub-Saharan Africa continue to experience extreme health vulnerabilities. Children with HIV may experience major physiological problems. This study explored the experience of Ghanaian adolescents with HIV. Material and methods: Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. 12 adolescents living with HIV between the ages of 14 to 19 years were recruited. Since a physiological problem is not without some level of emotional consequence, the most appropriate method to explore these physiological and emotional dimensions of treatment and diseases are through a qualitative research method. Results: Two main themes emerged from this study: ‘Rhapsody of physiological burden’ and ‘Bittersweet experience of adjusting to antiretroviral therapy (ART)’. Participants reported experiencing challenges, including bouts of headaches, itchy skin rashes, general body weakness, vomiting, appetite loss, diarrhea, and many more. Adolescents reported varying accounts concerning ART. Some patients described positive image of treatment, while others reported traumatic ordeal regarding side effects of the treatment to the extent that some stopped taking their medications. Conclusions: Policies aimed at supporting adolescents living with HIV needs to consider their unique set of physiological challenges to help improve health outcomes of the youngsters. Nurses should inform patients about results as well as possible side effects of ART prior initiation of the regimen, and also explain adverse events, which should be reported to hospital. concepts,