AIDS is a deadly disease that affects millions of people around the world. AIDS, which stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. AIDS is so deadly because it causes the body's immune system to stop working properly. When the immune system is damaged, bacteria are allowed to run rampant and infection builds easier. When a person who has a healthy immune system becomes sick, her body is able to fight off the sickness to some extent. When a person with AIDS becomes sick, his body is not able to fight the illness.
Infections
One common symptom of AIDS is frequent infections that last longer than normal or become more serious than normal. According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of HIV/AIDS vary depending on the phase of infection. The website EHF states that early symptoms of HIV/AIDS are just like the flu, but progress to include frequent infection. Bladder infections and skin infections are some of the most common infections to occur with AIDS.
Fatigue
Fatigue associated with AIDS is often severe and persistent. Fatigue is a feeling of being excessively exhausted. Someone who is fatigued will have no energy to perform the tasks of her normal daily routine. A person with AIDS may not want to leave the bed at all, or even lift her head off the pillow. This symptom lasts for the extent of the infection, progressively becoming worse. Rest offers little relief to fatigued AIDS patients.
Lesions
The University of California states there are many dermatological effects of AIDS on patients. One of these dermatological effects is lesions on the skin. These lesions, or sores, are found anywhere on the body. The most common places for lesions to show up are on the face and the abdomen. These lesions are hard to heal and can last for weeks at a time.
Confusion
AIDS can cause many side effects to neurological functions. Confusion and memory loss are common symptoms of AIDS. It is also possible for the patient to experience extreme anxiety and changes in behavior.
Sore Throat
Most patients who have AIDS will have a sore throat that never seems to get better. The lymph nodes in the throat can also become swollen. This is usually the result of a secondary infection.
