HIV symptoms

For the most part, the symptoms of HIV are the result of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and/or parasites.

Stage 1: Symptoms of early HIV infection

Many people with HIV have no symptoms for several months or even years after becoming infected. Others may develop flu-like symptoms, usually 2 to 6 weeks after contracting the virus.

Symptoms of early HIV infection can include:

• fever

• shaking chills

• bread stamp

• muscle pains

• throat pain

• sweatshirts (especially at night)

• enlarged acorns

• a red rash

• fatigue

• weakness

• unintentional weight loss

Stage 2: Asymptomatic HIV

In many cases, after the initial symptoms go away, there will be no more symptoms for many years.

During this time, the virus continues to develop and damage the immune system and organs. Without taking medications to stop HIV replication, this process can take up to 10 years on average. The infected person often has no symptoms, feels fine, and appears healthy.

Stage 3: Late-Stage HIV Infection

If left untreated, HIV weakens the ability to fight infection. The person becomes vulnerable to serious diseases. This stage of infection is known as AIDS.

Symptoms of late-stage HIV infection may include:

• blurry vision

• diarrhoea, which is often persistent or chronic

• dry cough

• fever over 100°F (37°C) that lasts for weeks

• night sweatshirts

• permanent tiredness

• shortness of breath (dyspnoea)

• swollen tassels that last for weeks

• unintentional weight loss

• white patches on the tongue or mouth

During the late stage of HIV infection, the risk of developing life-threatening disease is much higher. Life-threatening illnesses can be controlled, prevented, and/or treated with appropriate medications, often including HIV treatment.

Myths and facts about HIV and AIDS

There are many misconceptions about HIV and AIDS. The virus CANNOT be transmitted from:

• shaking hands

• embrace

• casual kisses

• sneezing

• touching intact skin

• use the same bathroom

• share towels

• share cutlery

• mouth-to-mouth resuscitation

• or other forms of “casual contact”

Diagnosis of HIV and AIDS

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) estimates that about 1 in 8 Americans who are HIV-positive do not know their HIV status.

Blood tests and HIV results

Diagnosis is made through a blood test that specifically detects the virus. If the HIV virus has been found, the test result is “positive.” The blood is retested several times before giving a positive result to the patient.

If a person has been exposed to the virus, it is crucial that they get tested as soon as possible. The earlier HIV is detected, the more likely it is that treatment will be successful. A home test kit can also be used.

After infection with HIV, it can take 3 weeks to 6 months for the virus to show up on tests. It may be necessary to retest. If the time a patient was most at risk for infection was within the past 6 months, they can be tested immediately. However, the provider will urge another test within a few weeks.

conclusion

HIV infection can cause AIDS to develop. However, it is possible to be infected with HIV without developing AIDS. Without treatment, HIV infection can progress and eventually develop into AIDS in the vast majority of cases. Once someone has received an AIDS diagnosis, it will always remain in their medical record.