HIV is a virus that targets and alters the immune system by destroying the white blood cells that fight infection and increases the risk and impact of other infections and diseases. Without treatment, the infection might progress to an advanced disease stage called Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV most often spreads through unprotected sex with a person who has HIV. It may also spread by sharing drug needles or through contact with the blood of a person who has HIV. Women can give it to their babies during pregnancy or childbirth. Some people with HIV do not show symptoms until months or even years after contracting the virus. However, people may develop a set of flu-like symptoms known as acute retroviral syndrome around 2–6 weeks after the virus enters the body. The early symptoms of HIV infection may include: fever, chills, joint pain, muscle aches, sore throat, sweats (particularly at night), enlarged glands, a red rash, tiredness, weakness, unintentional weight loss, and/or thrush. There is no cure, but there are many medicines that fight the HIV infection and lower the risk of infecting others. People who get early treatment can live with the disease for a long time. If you would like to find out more and receive a second opinion regarding your diagnosis and treatment, please contact us at secondopinions.com, for your peace of mind.