Symptoms of HIV
For the most part, HIV symptoms 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 being 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
• common bread
• muscle pains
• throat pain
• sweatshirts (especially at night)
• enlarged tassels
• a red rash
• tiredness
• weakness
• involuntary weight loss
Stage 2: Asymptomatic HIV
In many cases, after the initial symptoms disappear, there will be no further symptoms for many years.
During this time, the virus continues to develop and damage the immune system and organs. Without taking drugs to stop HIV replication, this process can take up to 10 years on average. The infected person often experiences 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 the infection is known as AIDS.
Symptoms of late-stage HIV infection can include:
• blurry vision
• diarrhea, which is usually persistent or chronic
• dry cough
• fever over 100 ° F (37 ° C) that lasts for weeks
• night sweatshirts
• permanent tiredness
• shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• puffy tassels that last for weeks
• involuntary weight loss
• white patches on the tongue or mouth
During the late stage of HIV infection, the risk of developing a life-threatening illness is much higher. Life-threatening illnesses can be controlled, prevented, and / or treated with the right 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:
• shake hands
• embrace
• casual kisses
• sneezing
• touch intact skin
• use the same bathroom
• share towels
• share cutlery
• mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
• or other forms of “casual contact”
HIV and AIDS diagnosis
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) estimates that approximately 1 in 8 HIV-positive Americans is unaware of their HIV status.
Blood tests and HIV results
Diagnosis is made by 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 the patient is given a positive result.
If a person has been exposed to the virus, it is essential that they get tested as soon as possible. The earlier HIV is found, the more likely treatment is to be successful. A home test kit can also be used.
After HIV infection, it can take 3 weeks to 6 months for the virus to show up in tests. It may be necessary to retest. If the time a patient was most at risk for infection was in the past 6 months, they can get tested right away. However, your provider will recommend that you have another test in a few weeks.
Conclution
HIV infection can lead to the development of AIDS. However, it is possible to become infected with HIV without developing AIDS. Without treatment, HIV infection can progress and will eventually turn into AIDS in the vast majority of cases. Once someone has been diagnosed with AIDS, it will always carry over to their medical record.