HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. The former is a virus that attacks the immune system, while the latter is a condition that can develop if this virus is left untreated. While there is no cure for HIV or AIDS, treatment helps suppress the virus and prevents it from causing further damage to the immune system.

Symptoms
The signs might change depending on the stage of the infection. Some do not have any symptoms at all in the beginning. But, when the virus spreads, the following signs might appear:

• Fever
  A low-grade fever is a common symptom, particularly during the early stages of an HIV infection.
• Fatigue
  Many with HIV experience fatigue and a lack of energy, which can result from the virus’s multiplication.
• Swollen lymph nodes
  The condition can cause the lymph nodes to become swollen and tender, particularly in the neck, armpits, and groin.
• Sore throat
  HIV can cause a persistent sore throat and other symptoms commonly seen during a cold or flu.
• Rash
  Rashes appear on the skin, which may be red, raised, or itchy.
• Night sweats
  Many with HIV experience night sweats, which can be severe and lead to disrupted sleep.
• Loss of appetite
  The condition can cause a loss of appetite or other metabolic changes.
• Diarrhea
  HIV can cause chronic diarrhea and other digestive symptoms.

Complications
In the later stages, when the virus spreads and causes AIDS, the immune system becomes more compromised. As a result, one may experience severe symptoms and complications, such as:

• Recurrent infections
  People with AIDS are more susceptible to opportunistic infections like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and meningitis. Managing these can be hard, and it can take a toll on a person’s physical and emotional health.
• Cognitive changes
  The disease can cause cognitive changes, such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating. These changes can make it difficult to perform routine tasks effectively.
• Cancer
  AIDS patients are at an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including Kaposi’s sarcoma, lymphoma, and cervical cancer. Hence, those with the condition are advised to go for regular cancer screenings.

Those who experience the signs mentioned above should visit a healthcare expert to determine the cause. Detecting HIV early helps manage the condition better.

Causes
Blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk are just a few bodily fluids that may carry HIV. The following are the most typical means of transmission of the virus:

• Unprotected intercourse
  Unprotected intercourse with a partner who is infected with HIV is the most typical method of the virus’s transmission.
• Sharing health equipment
  HIV can spread by sharing personal hygiene products and health devices with an infected person. It can also occur when getting tattoos or body piercings with unsterilized equipment.
• Mother-to-child transmission
  HIV can be passed from an infected mother to the child during childbirth, breastfeeding, or pregnancy.
• Blood transfusions or organ transplants
  HIV can spread through blood transfusions or organ transplants from an infected donor. However, this is rare in countries with screening programs in place.

Treatment and management
While there is no cure for HIV or AIDS, treatments help manage the infection and slow its progression. It typically involves a combination of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and other remedies, which suppress the virus and prevent it from damaging the immune system. ART therapy includes using a combination of three or more treatments from different classes. These work to target different stages of the virus’s lifecycle, making it harder for HIV to replicate, thereby reducing its amount in the body.

In addition to ART, people with AIDS may need treatment to prevent or deal with opportunistic infections that can occur when the immune system is weak. Further, they are advised to follow a thorough self-care routine, which includes eating healthy foods, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding risky behaviors that could further compromise the immune system.

Those with HIV or AIDS should follow up with the healthcare expert regularly as it can help monitor the virus and manage the complications or side effects of treatment. With the right therapy and care, patients can lead long, healthy lives and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for HIV or AIDS can help people tackle the disease better and take steps to protect themselves and others from the infection. Early diagnosis and timely expert care are critical in managing the infection and reducing the risk of complications.