HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, and it can take years for symptoms to appear. The symptoms of HIV vary depending on the stage of the disease. Here are the three stages of HIV and some of the symptoms people may experience:

Stage 1: Acute HIV Infection

• Fever
• Chills
• Rash
• Night sweats
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Mouth ulcers

These symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, some people do not have any symptoms at all during this early stage of HIV.

Stage 2: Clinical Latency

• HIV is still active and continues to reproduce in the body
• People may not have any symptoms or get sick during this phase but can transmit HIV
• People who take HIV treatment as prescribed may never move into Stage 3 (AIDS)

Stage 3: AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

• 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 or inside the mouth, nose, or eyelids
• Memory loss, depression, and other neurologic disorders

It is important to note that not everyone with HIV will experience symptoms, and some people may experience symptoms that are similar to those caused by other illnesses. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it is important to get tested.