Opportunistic infections or diseases that take advantage of the body's lowered resistance, capitalize on the weakened immune system to cause infection and illness. By mother to infant usually during pregnancy but may happen during delivery or breast feeding. The window period is usually six weeks to two months , but may be six months or longer in some cases. HIV antibody tests would be positive. The time from infection to experiencing serious symptoms averages 10 years.
People can progress at different rates, slowly or quickly, along the spectrum.
A competent, thorough medical evaluation can help those who have HIV infection decide what strategies and treatments work best for them. Research is also providing better treatment for people in all stages of the HIV spectrum. When symptoms do begin, they are similar to common minor illnesses but may last longer and be more severe. Women and men experience different kinds of symptoms but all symptoms relate to a compromised immune system. Increasing weight loss.