Acute HIV Infection
The first stage of HIV infection is known as acute HIV infection, which occurs within 2 to 4 weeks after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms of acute HIV infection include fever, sore throat, rash, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes, and headache. These symptoms resemble those of the flu or other viral illnesses, making it challenging to diagnose HIV based on symptoms alone. During this stage, the virus replicates rapidly, and the immune response is not yet fully developed. It is crucial to get tested for HIV during this stage, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Clinical Latency Stage
The second stage of HIV infection is the clinical latency stage, also known as chronic HIV infection. During this stage, the virus is still active but replicates at lower levels. Patients may not have any symptoms or only mild ones. Without antiretroviral therapy (ART), this stage can last for many years, although the virus is still transmittable. Regular monitoring is essential during this stage to assess the immune status and viral load of the individual. Early initiation of ART is recommended to prevent progression to the next stage of HIV infection.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)
The final stage of HIV infection is AIDS, which is characterized by severe immunosuppression and the development of opportunistic infections. Symptoms of AIDS include rapid weight loss, recurrent fever, extreme fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis and pneumonia. Without treatment, the average survival time after developing AIDS is about 3 years. Diagnosis of AIDS is made based on the presence of specific opportunistic infections or a CD4 cell count below 200 cells/mm³. Effective treatment with ART can prevent the progression to AIDS and significantly prolong life expectancy.