HIV & AIDS: Symptoms, Causes, Testing & Treatment
HIV is a virus that affects the immune system. Learn about HIV and AIDS, common symptoms, how HIV spreads, testing, treatment and ways to reduce the risk of infection.
Learn about the virus, immune system, testing and treatment.
What Is HIV & AIDS?
Understanding the difference between HIV infection and AIDS.
HIV is a virus that affects the immune system.
HIV attacks immune cells, particularly CD4 cells. Without treatment, HIV can gradually weaken the immune system and may progress to AIDS, the most advanced stage of HIV infection. Effective treatment can control HIV and help protect the immune system.
HIV vs. AIDS
HIV and AIDS are related, but they are not the same thing.
HIV
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is the virus that attacks the body's immune system.
AIDS
AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, when significant immune system damage has occurred.
How HIV Affects the Immune System
HIV gradually affects immune cells that help the body fight infections.
HIV Enters the Body
HIV infects specific immune cells and uses them to make more copies of the virus.
CD4 Cells Are Affected
HIV damages CD4 cells, which play an important role in coordinating immune responses.
Immune Defenses Weaken
Without effective treatment, progressive immune damage can make it harder for the body to fight certain infections and diseases.
Stages of HIV Infection
HIV infection is commonly described in three stages.
Acute HIV Infection
The early stage of infection. Some people experience flu-like symptoms, while others may have no noticeable symptoms.
Chronic HIV Infection
HIV continues to be present in the body. A person may have few or no symptoms while the virus remains active.
AIDS
The most advanced stage of HIV infection, associated with severe immune system damage and certain serious illnesses.
Common HIV Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the stage of infection.
Fever
Fever or chills may occur, especially during early infection.
Fatigue
Persistent tiredness or low energy can occur.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes may become enlarged.
Sore Throat
A sore throat can occur during early infection.
Skin Rash
Some people may develop a rash.
Night Sweats
Night sweating can occur in some people.
Muscle Aches
Muscle or body aches may occur.
Diarrhea
Digestive symptoms may occur in some people.
How HIV Is Transmitted
HIV is transmitted through specific body fluids and certain types of exposure.
HIV Can Spread Through
- Blood
- Semen
- Vaginal fluids
- Rectal fluids
- Breast milk
HIV Is Not Spread Through
- Hugging or ordinary touching
- Sharing food or utensils
- Air or water
- Casual social contact
- Mosquito bites
HIV Testing
Testing can determine whether HIV infection is present and can help guide appropriate medical care.
Screening Test
Initial testing looks for evidence of HIV infection.
Confirmatory Testing
Additional testing may be used when a screening result is reactive.
Viral Load
Measures the amount of HIV in the blood.
CD4 Count
Helps assess immune system function in people living with HIV.
Possible HIV Exposure Within 72 Hours?
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may help prevent HIV after a possible exposure. It needs to be started as soon as possible and within 72 hours, so seek urgent medical care.
HIV Treatment
HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy and ongoing medical care.
Antiretroviral Therapy
ART uses a combination of HIV medicines to reduce the amount of virus in the body.
Viral Suppression
Effective treatment can reduce HIV in the blood to an undetectable level.
Protecting the Immune System
Treatment helps protect CD4 cells and reduce the risk of HIV-related complications.
Medication Adherence
Taking HIV medicines consistently is an important part of treatment.
Regular Monitoring
Healthcare professionals may monitor viral load, CD4 count and overall health.
Long-Term Care
Ongoing medical care helps manage HIV and address other health needs.
Undetectable = Untransmittable
When a person with HIV takes treatment as prescribed and maintains an undetectable viral load, HIV is not sexually transmitted. This is commonly referred to as U=U.
How to Reduce the Risk of HIV
Several strategies can help prevent HIV transmission.
Condoms
Use condoms correctly and consistently during sexual activity.
PrEP
Pre-exposure prophylaxis can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV for people who may be exposed.
PEP
Post-exposure prophylaxis may help prevent HIV after a possible exposure when started promptly.
Do Not Share Needles
Avoid sharing injection equipment or needles.
Regular Testing
Testing can help identify HIV and support timely treatment.
Effective Treatment
People living with HIV can reduce sexual transmission risk by maintaining an undetectable viral load.
Possible Complications of Untreated HIV
Progressive immune system damage can increase the risk of certain infections and illnesses.
Common HIV Misconceptions
Understanding how HIV is and is not transmitted can help reduce misinformation and stigma.
When Should You Consider HIV Testing?
Testing may be appropriate depending on exposure, symptoms, healthcare recommendations and individual circumstances.
After a Possible Exposure
Consider testing after a situation that may have exposed you to HIV.
Routine Sexual Health Testing
Regular testing can be part of routine sexual and reproductive healthcare.
When a Doctor Recommends It
A healthcare professional may recommend testing based on your health history or circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About HIV & AIDS
What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
HIV is the virus that attacks the immune system. AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection and occurs when significant immune system damage has developed.
Can HIV be cured?
There is currently no cure for HIV, but effective antiretroviral treatment can control the virus and protect the immune system.
Can a person have HIV without symptoms?
Yes. Some people may have no noticeable symptoms, particularly during certain stages of infection.
How is HIV diagnosed?
HIV is diagnosed through appropriate HIV testing. Different tests may be used depending on the situation and timing of possible exposure.
How does HIV spread?
HIV can spread through certain infected body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids and breast milk.
Can HIV spread through hugging?
No. HIV is not spread through hugging, ordinary touching or casual social contact.
What is PEP?
PEP is post-exposure prophylaxis. It involves HIV medicines taken after a possible exposure and should be started as soon as possible, within 72 hours.
What is PrEP?
PrEP is pre-exposure prophylaxis, a preventive medication strategy for people who may have a higher chance of acquiring HIV.
What does U=U mean?
U=U means Undetectable = Untransmittable. A person with HIV who maintains an undetectable viral load through effective treatment does not sexually transmit HIV.
Can someone with HIV live a normal life?
Effective HIV treatment can help people maintain their health and live long lives. Regular medical care and adherence to treatment are important.
Medical Information You Can Trust
Written by: Ghaziabad Clinic Editorial Team
Medical Review: Reviewed by a qualified healthcare professional
Last Updated: Regularly reviewed for medical accuracy
This page is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for diagnosis or personalized medical advice.
Have Questions About HIV or AIDS?
If you have concerns about symptoms, possible exposure, testing or treatment, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
Consult a Doctor