Make Health My Homepage
More Ways to Get Health!
gift newsletter igoogle healthyvoice

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Health's Top Stories
Get a weekly look at the most popular stories on Health.com.

AIDS


content provided by Healthwise

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the last stage of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). AIDS weakens the immune system and increases a person's risk of developing serious illnesses such as certain cancers, opportunistic diseases, and neurological disorders.

AIDS is spread through contaminated blood, specifically through sexual contact or shared needles. Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, fever, night sweats, thrush (infection in the mouth and throat), and swollen lymph nodes of the neck, armpits, and groin.


Last Updated: April 10, 2009
Author:
Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Medical Review:
Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine

Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine


© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.



This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

Advertisement