Early Symptoms (Acute HIV Infection):

• Description: Symptoms may appear 2-4 weeks after exposure.
• Common Signs: Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, rash, muscle aches, fatigue.

Clinical Latency Stage:

• Description: Virus is active but reproduces at low levels.
• Symptoms: Often none or mild; some may have swollen lymph nodes.

Symptoms of Progression to AIDS:

• Description: Immune system becomes severely weakened.
• Common Signs: Rapid weight loss, recurring fever, night sweats, extreme fatigue, prolonged lymph node swelling, diarrhea, sores, pneumonia, memory loss.

Importance of Testing:

• Description: Symptoms overlap with other illnesses; testing is essential for diagnosis.

When to See a Doctor:

• Description: Seek medical advice if symptoms appear after potential exposure or if you have concerns.

Medical Specialties Involved:

• Description: Infectious disease specialists and primary care doctors manage HIV diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Note:

• Description: Early diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy can control the virus and improve quality of life.