HIV

              Some people experience signs and symptoms of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), as soon
as they become infected, while others don't. When they occur, early signs and symptoms are often mistaken as for flu or mild viral infection. Initial signs and symptoms of HIV include: fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin. Any symptoms from becoming infected typically resolve in one to four weeks. 
              HIV destroys the white blood cells that are required to fight infection. As the white cell count falls to dangerous levels, numerous diseases and infection will emerge.  The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) says the following the following signs of symptoms may be a warning signs of       late-stage HIV infection: rapid weight loss, dry cough, recurring fever or profuse night sweats, profound and unexplained fatigue, swollen lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck, diarrhea lasting more than a week, white spots or unusual blemishes on the tongue, in the mouth, or in the throat, pneumonia, red ,brown, pink, or purplish blotches on or under the skin or inside the mouth, eyelids or nose, memory loss, depression and other neurological disorders.
             As you can see, the signs and symptoms of HIV infection are similar to those for many different viral infections. The only way to know for sure if you are infected with HIV is to be tested. Many people infected with HIV don't have any signs and symptoms at all for many years. 



By: Chelsea Marie Derama