HIV weakens your immune system by attacking your white blood cells. If untreated, HIV can progress into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which makes your body highly vulnerable to severe infections and even death.

The origins of HIV remain uncertain. Researchers believe the virus may have jumped from non-human primates to humans during the 20th century. In the U.S., the first recognized cases appeared in the 1980s, initially affecting gay and bisexual men, which fueled stigma and discrimination.

Anyone can contract HIV. The virus spreads through unprotected sex, shared drug needles, contact with blood, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. While there is no cure, treatment can control HIV and allow people to live long, healthy lives.

HIV Symptoms

HIV symptoms vary. Many people experience flu-like signs within two to four weeks after infection.

Early Symptoms

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Fatigue

  • Sore throat

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Muscle aches

  • Night sweats

  • Rash

  • Canker sores

Some people may not show symptoms at all. As HIV progresses, symptoms often disappear until it develops into AIDS.

AIDS Symptoms
When untreated HIV progresses into AIDS, the immune system becomes too weak to fight infections. Symptoms include:

  • Weight loss

  • Recurring fevers

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Diarrhea

  • Sores on the mouth, genitals, or anus

  • Skin discoloration

  • Memory loss and depression

  • Infections and neurological problems

How Does HIV Spread?

HIV spreads when infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid, or rectal fluid enters the body.

Main Routes Of Transmission

  • Anal sex: Carries the highest risk because of the thin tissue lining the rectum.

  • Vaginal sex: Lower risk than anal sex but still possible through semen, vaginal fluid, or menstrual blood.

  • Shared needles: Using contaminated needles exposes people to infected blood.

  • Pregnancy and childbirth: HIV can pass from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.

Ways HIV Does Not Spread

  • Insect bites

  • Saliva, sweat, or tears

  • Hugging or handshakes

  • Public toilets

  • Airborne contact

Risk Factors

Anyone can get HIV. Risks increase if you:

  • Have unprotected sex

  • Have multiple partners

  • Use injectable drugs

  • Already have another sexually transmitted infection

How Is HIV Diagnosed?

Early testing is crucial. The main diagnostic methods include:

Antigen/Antibody Test: Detects both antibodies and antigens in blood samples.
Antibody Test: Rapid self-tests using blood or saliva.
Nucleic Acid Test (NAT): Detects the virus itself and measures viral load, though costly.

Negative results are only reliable if no exposure occurred within the past 90 days. A positive test requires confirmation with further testing.

Stages Of HIV

Stage 1 – Acute Infection
Occurs soon after exposure. High viral load makes individuals highly contagious.

Stage 2 – Chronic HIV Infection
Also known as asymptomatic HIV. The virus multiplies slowly and can last for years. People remain contagious.

Stage 3 – AIDS
The immune system is severely weakened, leading to opportunistic infections and high risk of death without treatment.

Treatments For HIV

There is no cure, but effective treatments exist.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
The standard treatment combines several medicines to suppress the virus and keep the immune system strong. Starting ART early is critical. Consistent use reduces viral load and prevents progression to AIDS.

How To Prevent HIV

  • Use condoms during all sexual activity.

  • Get tested regularly for HIV and other STIs.

  • Take ART as prescribed if HIV-positive to reduce viral load to undetectable levels.

  • Avoid sharing needles or drug equipment.

  • Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): Emergency medicine taken within 72 hours of possible exposure.

  • Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): Preventive medicine for those at high risk.

  • Pregnancy precautions: HIV-positive mothers can lower transmission risk to under 1% with treatment.

Comorbid Conditions

HIV often occurs alongside other health conditions:

  • Hepatitis C (HCV): Common co-infection due to shared transmission routes.

  • Mental Health Disorders: Depression, PTSD, and substance abuse are more prevalent in people with HIV.

  • Heart Disease: Weakened immunity and inflammation increase cardiovascular risks.

Living With HIV

An HIV diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but many people live long, fulfilling lives with treatment. Combating stigma and prioritizing both mental and physical health are essential.

Tips For Living Well

  • Take prescribed medicines consistently.

  • Maintain regular checkups with healthcare providers.

  • Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly.

  • Get adequate rest and manage stress.

  • Seek emotional support from counseling or support groups.

  • Avoid smoking to lower additional health risks.

A Quick Review

HIV weakens your immune system by attacking white blood cells. It spreads through sexual fluids, blood, and mother-to-child transmission. If untreated, it can progress to AIDS.

With modern treatments like ART, most people with HIV live long, healthy lives. Preventive options like PrEP and PEP further reduce risk. Early testing and consistent treatment remain the keys to controlling HIV.