HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The HIV virus destroys the immune system over time, making it difficult to fight infections. HIV is transmitted through sexual contact, the use of contaminated needles or syringes, or contaminated blood transfusions and blood products. In rare cases, it can be transmitted through organ transplantation or from mother to child during birth. There is no cure for HIV or AIDS, and the best way to prevent becoming infected is to practice safe sex and know the sexual history of all your sexual partners. In many cases, people experience no symptoms soon after becoming infected, but others do experience early symptoms.
Swollen Glands
Swollen lymph glands are a frequent early sign of an HIV infection. Several groupings of lymph nodes are located throughout the body, but swelling most often occurs in the lymph glands in the neck, armpits, groin and under the chin.
Flu-like Symptoms
Many people infected with HIV will develop flu-like symptoms about two to four weeks after becoming infected. Some common symptoms are a fever, fatigue or a sore throat.
Mouth Sores
Some people with an HIV infection will develop sores in and around the mouth. A yeast infection in the mouth, which is sometimes called thrush, can occur.
Yeast Infections
Women infected with HIV may experience frequent vaginal yeast infections as a symptom of the illness.
Diarrhea
Some people will experience bouts of diarrhea as an early symptom of an HIV infection. However, in many people with HIV, this symptom develops later.
Other Symptoms
Other early symptoms of HIV include skin rashes, muscle aches or stiffness and headaches. In some people with HIV, these symptoms develop years after the initial infection; in others, they are an early symptom.
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