AIDS is an auto-immune disorder that weakens the immune system to the point that it can't fight off disease. Its a chronic and sometimes life-threatening disease that gradually gets worse until the body has little or no resistance left. AIDS begins with exposure to the HIV virus. Once the virus establishes itself, it substantially weakens the immune system until it cannot fight off infections and cancers. As the disease progresses and the body weakens, even familiar viruses such as the common cold, flu and pneumonia, can cause death.
Cold and Flu Symptoms
AIDS has many symptoms that are also common to cold and flu viruses. Fatigue, sore throat, cough, headache and general discomfort or uneasiness can all be symptoms of AIDS. Symptoms that last longer than normal, such as a fever that lasts more than 10 days or a cough that won't go away, are also signs that something other than a cold or flu virus may be present.
Skin Disorders
People who suffer from AIDS may have chronic skin problems. Rashes, hives, wounds that won't heal and open lesions are all symptoms. Swelling of the gums and lesions in the mouth are other signs of skin disorders associated with the AIDS virus. Symptoms that have to do with the skin, such as rashes and lesions, may be caused by an allergic reaction. If they do not go away within a normal period of time, about 7 to 10 days, you may want to visit your physician to find out if there is an underlying cause other than an allergy.
Lymph Nodes and Tumors
Lymph nodes and the growth of unexplained tumors may also be symptoms of AIDS. Tumors called Karposi's sarcoma are common in AIDS patients. Unlike cancer where lymph nodes start out by swelling near the cancer, AIDS patients may have swollen lymph nodes throughout the body.
Weight Loss
Many AIDS patients suffer from unexplained weight loss. Even though their eating habits may not have changed they continue to lose weight. In some cases, chronic diarrhea may occur. Changes in the frequency and texture of bowel movements may be symptoms. They may also play a part in the weight loss.
Miscellaneous Symptoms
Joint pain and swelling and bone tenderness are possible symptoms of AIDS. These may be mistaken for arthritis if they occur along with joint stiffness. Blurred vision, speech impairment and memory loss can all be signs that the AIDS virus is present. If the symptoms go away after a short amount of time, AIDS may not be the cause. If any symptom continues to linger for longer than a few days and does not seem to respond to treatment, you should visit your family physician.
References
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Phyllis Balch, 2006
- Mayo Clinic: AIDS
