HIV infection results in progressive depletion of immune system making the host susceptible to contact various infections including opportunistic infection and other AIDS related illness. Though the process cannot be completely stopped, it can be slowed down which would improve the quality of life. Therefore the essential features of an efficient and comprehensive plan for AIDS patients should include
therapeutic
preventive
supportive measures.

As of today the fact remains that there is no definite cure for AIDS, nevertheless, the fact remains that the quality of life of the AIDS patients can register definite improvement if there is timely intervention and treatment of conditions arising out of people with AIDS in the society. They can look forward to a feeling of normalcy and to lead a productive life. This is particularly true for young patients for whom even a short period of normal existence could prove worthwhile. In view of the above, an integrated management plan for AIDS would be:

confirmation of antibody to HIV.
diagnosing the presence or absence of opportunistic infection or malignancies.
appraisal of any neuro-psychiatric complication.
counselling.
education for preventing the transmission of infection.

Laboratory parameters

Total lymphocyte count, CD4 counts, viral counts, viral load to be monitored (if possible).

Prevention of repeated STIs

Persons detected with HIV should be asked to use good quality condoms in sexual practices even if both partners are HIV positive. Apart from pregnancy, this will protect them from infection by other STDs, which acts as co-factors in transmission of HIV.

Change in life style

When a person is detected HIV sero-positive, he should be educated and counselled about HIV/AIDS. He should be counselled for a positive way of life and advised to give up smoking, drinking late nights and should know the use of condoms during sexual practices as all these practices further depress the immune status of the individual.

Nutrition in HIV managment

The nutritional status of the individual with HIV infection is important to consider early in the course of infection. Studies have shown that this is a bearing upon improving the quality of life of such individuals.

Food plays an important role both in health and in disease. Precautions in careful selection and handling of foods help prevent opportunistic infections.

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
· Eat sprouts as regular part of diet
Wash hands before handling any kitchen equipment or utensils
Wash sponges and towels after each use
Always boil water for 35 minutes to inactive microorganisms or use a high quality   filter that removes dust and kills bacteria

Avoid eating unwashed and unhygienic food and fresh vegetables and salads
Avoid eating raw eggs

Small frequent meals every day do good
Say three meals and two snacks
Eat at regular times, dont wait to be hungry

Water, juice, nectar, soups, atleast 10-12 cups a day
No alcoholic beverages when on drugs, as it deplets the immune system and   damages the liver
Tea (maximum 4 cups a day), coffee is alright, but they cause dehydration

Exercise has a positive effect on the immune system and quality of life
CD4 cell count goes up in people who do simple, consistent aerobic exercises
Exercise increases energy, increases appetite and sense of well being

Persons in good physical condition have a better chance in overcoming various opportunistic infections that afflicts AIDS patients. Some amount of regular physical exercise is known to enhance the immune function and is therefore strongly recommended. Rest is as important as physical exercise to build strength. Proper yogoasanas and kundalini yogas recieve the body cells. So the HIV & AIDS patients must do these regularly to sharpen mind and body at a time.

Anxiety and tension, common in AIDS patients, have a detrimental effect on the patient's ability to fight diseases and maintain a good health. It has been advised that people with a strong attitude and mental approach can help themselves to overcome infection. This can be brought about by a sympathetic attitude of the patient's physician, relatives, friends, and acquaintances. Reassurance and psychological support are necessary to help them overcome their periodic bouts of severe depression.