What are the symptoms and stages of HIV infection leading to AIDS?
HIV infection progresses through several stages, each with its own set of symptoms. Initially, individuals may experience acute HIV infection, which can resemble flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and fatigue within 2 to 4 weeks after exposure. This is followed by a chronic stage where the virus is still active but reproduces at very low levels, often without symptoms. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS, where the immune system becomes severely compromised. Symptoms of AIDS may include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, extreme fatigue, and the appearance of opportunistic infections or cancers. Recognizing these symptoms is vital for timely medical intervention and management.