What is HIV/AIDS?
AIDS (Acquired immune deficiency syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a disease caused by a virus called HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). The illness alters the immune system, making people much more vulnerable to infections and diseases. This susceptibility worsens as the disease progresses.
Early Stages of HIV/AIDS Infection?
- fever
- chills
- joint pain
- muscle ache
- sore throat
- sweats
- enlarged glands
- a red rash
- tiredness
- weakness
- weight loss
Late Stages of HIV/AIDS Infection?
- blurred vision
- diarrhea
- dry cough
- fever of above 37 C lasting for weeks
- night sweats
- shortness of breath
- swollen glands
- weight loss
- white spots on the tongue or mouth
Treatment Available?
Currently, there is no vaccine or cure for HIV/AIDS. But treatments have evolved which are much more efficacious - they can improve patients' general health and quality of life considerably.