HIV, also known as the human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system. Eventually, HIV infections progress to a condition known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. As the viral infection affects the body, a number of symptoms can be seen or easily observed on infected patients.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes are often one of the earliest symptoms of an HIV infection, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of many kinds of infections as the immune system attempts to fight off an infection. One of the ways in which HIV works is to activate the immune system and then infect the immune cells. Consequently, HIV can cause swelling of the lymph nodes, such as those in the neck, groin and arm pits at any point during the course of its infection. In severe cases, these swollen lymph nodes will be visible.
Rash
A rash, which can occur anywhere on the body, is a symptom of an early HIV infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Because rashes occur as part of many conditions, it can be nearly impossible to distinguish a rash caused by HIV from other potential rash causes.
Weight Loss
Sudden weight loss is a common symptom of an HIV infection, particularly if the infection has progresses to AIDS, according to Health Scout. Sudden weight loss is typically defined as more than 10 lbs. over the course of two months with no identifiable reason, such as a new diet or exercise regime. This weight loss is the result of the body burning excess energy in an attempt to recover from the effects of the HIV infection.
Skin Spots
Patients who are suffering from AIDS may also develop discolored patches on their skin. These patches may be blue, purple or red in color.
Skin Ulcers
Patients with AIDS are also prone to developing skin ulcers, particularly on the inside of the mouth, according to Journal of the American Medical Association. This in part is because as the immune system becomes weakened by HIV, it loses the ability to effectively combat minor infections of the skin, which results in frequent sores caused by bacteria.
Fungal Infections
AIDS also can cause patients to develop white spots or a white coating in their mouth, tongue and vagina. This is often due to a candida infection, a fungus that normally is held in check by the immune system. However, AIDS-weakened immune systems cannot keep candida from colonizing moist body cavities, including the oral and vaginal areas.
