AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, and it’s a deadly disease that affects the immune system of an individual. The disease is caused by a virus known as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
Once the virus attacks the immune system, it makes it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. The symptoms of AIDS may vary from one individual to another, and some may not show any symptoms at all. Here are 15 signs and symptoms of AIDS that you should be aware of.
1. Fever
Fever is a common symptom of AIDS. It occurs when the body tries to fight off infections and diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. A persistent fever that does not go away even with medication is one of the signs of AIDS.
2. Night sweats
Night sweats are excessive sweating that occurs at night. It can be a symptom of many infections, including HIV and AIDS. Night sweats can be so severe that they wake you up from your sleep, leaving you drenched in sweat.
3. Weight loss
Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of AIDS. The disease makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients, which leads to a loss of weight.
Significant weight loss may occur even if the person is eating well and doesn’t have any other identifiable health conditions.
4. Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time is another common sign of AIDS. Persistent fatigue can be due to the body’s struggle to fight off infections and diseases. Even normal activities can leave the affected person feeling extremely tired.
5. Skin rashes
Unexplained rashes on the skin can be a symptom of AIDS. The rashes may be itchy and red, and can spread to other parts of the body. Poor immune function may lead to the development of skin cancer or other skin infections.
6. Swollen lymph glands
If you notice lumps or bumps on your neck, underarms, or groin, these may be swollen lymph glands. The lymph glands become overactive when the body is fighting off an infection. In HIV or AIDS, the lymph glands become swollen and stay that way.
7. Thrush
Thrush is a fungal infection that affects the mouth and throat. It’s common in people with HIV or AIDS since the body’s immune system is not able to fight off the fungus.
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Thrush appears as white patches on the tongue and the inside of the mouth and can be very painful.
8. Chronic diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea is a common symptom of AIDS. Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. People with AIDS are also more likely to get infections that cause diarrhea, such as Salmonella and E. coli.
9. Cough and difficulty breathing
A cough that lingers for weeks or months and difficulty in breathing can be a symptom of AIDS. Infections such as pneumonia and tuberculosis are more common in people with HIV or AIDS. These infections may lead to serious lung damage.
10. Memory loss
Memory loss and dementia may occur in people with AIDS. This is due to the damage that the virus causes in the brain. The symptoms may range from mild forgetfulness to severe impairment of thinking, concentration, and motor function.
11. Nightmares and hallucinations
People with AIDS may also experience nightmares and hallucinations. These can be due to the medications used to manage the disease, or due to the dysfunction of the nervous system caused by the virus.
12. Seizures
Seizures can also be a symptom of AIDS. They may be caused by fever, brain damage, or infections. They can be severe and can lead to serious injury.
13. Painful joints
Pain and stiffness in the joints can occur in people with AIDS. This may be due to arthritis or other infections that can cause joint pain.
14. Menstrual abnormalities
Women with AIDS may experience changes in their menstrual cycle. This may include heavy bleeding, missed periods, and irregular periods.
15. Dry mouth and sore throat
Dry mouth and sore throat are also common in people with AIDS. This may be due to the medications used to manage the disease or due to infections such as thrush.
