HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, and it can take years for HIV to show any symptoms. However, some people may experience flu-like symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks after infection, which is called acute retroviral syndrome or primary HIV infection. These symptoms can include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Aching muscles
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• A red rash that doesnt itch, usually on your torso
• Fever
• Ulcers (sores) in your mouth, esophagus, anus, or genitals

These symptoms can last for a week or two and then go away. After this initial stage, HIV may not cause any symptoms for years, but it can still be transmitted to others.

As HIV progresses, it weakens the immune system, and people may develop mild infections or chronic signs and symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Oral yeast infection (thrush)
• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Pneumonia

If HIV is left untreated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is the late stage of HIV infection. Symptoms of AIDS can include:

• Rapid weight loss
• Recurring fever or profuse night sweats
• Extreme and unexplained tiredness
• Prolonged swelling of the lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck
• Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week
• Sores of the mouth, anus, or genitals
• Pneumonia
• Red, brown, pink, or purplish blotches on or under the skin

Its important to note that not everyone with HIV will experience the same symptoms, and some people may not have any symptoms at all. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested.