How to See Signs of AIDS

Acquired immunodeficiency virus is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. The disease is chronic and life-threatening. You don't die of the disease itself, but rather infections caused by the suppression of your immune system. When you first contract HIV, your immune system becomes damaged, which causes the inability for your immune system to fight infections or diseases such as pneumonia or cancer. As the disease progresses into AIDS, signs and symptoms of the disease become more serious, and complications can result. According to the Mayo Clinic, nearly 39.5 million people worldwide are already infected with the HIV virus.

Early Stages

• When you first become infected with the virus (HIV), you may develop signs that are much like the flu. This can occur two to four weeks after infection. You may develop a fever, headache, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, and a body rash. Some people who become infected, may never exhibit initial signs or symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is still possible to transmit the disease to sexual partners, even if you show no signs of the disease.

Later Stages

• You can have the virus living in your body, undetected, for up to 10 years. During this time, the virus is replicating itself and destroying healthy immune cells. Signs and symptoms during this time can range from mild to severe. Diarrhea can occur, and this may last for up to a week. Many individuals also develop a dry and hacking cough, fever, weight loss, shortness of breath, severe fatigue, and night sweats.

AIDS Development

• According to the Mayo Clinic, after about 10 years when serious symptoms begin to develop, the symptoms you experience classify as an AIDS development. Lymphocytes are one of five types of white blood cells within your body. These cells are important with helping your immune system fight infections. If your CD4 levels drop below 200, then your body cannot protect itself from foreign invaders. Normal ranges for a CD4 lymphocyte count range between 800 to 1,200.

Full-blown AIDS

• Signs of an AIDS infection include night sweats that soak your pajamas and bed sheets, chills, fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and not being able to catch your breath. You will also develop white lesions upon your tongue and mouth, develop severe headaches, have rapid weight loss, visual disturbances, such as distorted vision, and swollen lymph glands within your neck, armpits, or groin.

Prevention/Solution

• AIDS is a long-term disease, with no cure or vaccine. Prevention is the best method against contracting the disease. If sexually active, always use a condom. Never use oil-based lubricants when using a condom, as this can increase the chances of the condom breaking. If you're allergic to latex condoms, there are condoms made from polyurethane (plastic). Lambskin condoms don't protect from HIV/AIDS, so never use these types of condoms. Limit the amount of sexual partners you have. If you use intravenous drugs, throw away used needles, and never share them. According to the Mayo Clinic, male circumcision can significantly reduce the chances of contracting the disease. If you have the virus, don't donate your blood or organs.