The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that 1 in 5 people who have HIV do not know that they have become infected. HIV weakens a patient's immune system. In the most advanced stages of HIV, AIDS, patients become susceptible to infections, resulting in physical symptoms. MedlinePlus adds that in people ages 25 to 44, AIDS is the sixth most common cause of death.
Fever and Chills
People with AIDS can have fever and chills as a result of the weakened immune system. Patients may shake when they have the chills. The MayoClinic.com notes that patients can have a fever higher than 100 degrees F that lasts for several weeks. If an AIDS patient has a fever at night, he can have night sweats that soak his sheets and pajamas.
Gastrointestinal Problems
AIDS patients can have gastrointestinal problems. MayoClinic.com points out, for example, that patients can have chronic diarrhea, in which they have diarrhea that lasts longer than two weeks. Chronic diarrhea can occur along with weight loss.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Patients can have swollen lymph nodes, in which these glands become enlarged. Some patients may notice that their lymph nodes become red as well. These swollen lymph nodes can occur around the neck, although the lymph nodes in the groin and armpits can also become enlarged. MedlinePlus points out that besides having the swollen lymph nodes during the advanced stage of the virus, patients can also have them two to four weeks after becoming infected.
Weakness
AIDS can also affect patients' energy levels. MayoClinic.com notes that patients may have unexplained fatigue, to the extent that it can be difficult to function. These fatigue problems can continue for a few weeks. Patients may also have weakness.
Breathing Problems
Some AIDS patients can have problems with their breathing. For example, patients may have shortness of breath, in which they have trouble breathing. Patients may feel like they are not getting enough oxygen. A dry cough may also occur with the shortness of breath.
Other Physical Signs
The infections that occur in AIDS patients can result in other physical symptoms. For example, patients may have headaches. Vision problems can occur with AIDS, such as blurred vision. Patients may have distorted vision, such as seeing a skewed image. MayoClinic.com explains that patients can have white spots that form on their mouth or tongue, which do not go away.
