HIV symptoms vary from one individual to another. In case you have an active sex life or think you may have been exposed to the virus, it is necessary that you undertake an HIV test as soon as possible. Before then, you may experience many symptoms a few weeks after infection. A Southern African Journal of Epidemiology and Infection indicates that approximately 80% of people experience flu-like symptoms a few weeks after being infected commonly referred to the acute illness HIV stage. Among the most likely early symptoms to experience during this stage include;
Fever
This is among the very first symptoms of HIV. It may be accompanied by other mild symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph glands. Within the first fourteen days of infection, the virus gets to the bloodstream and immediately starts to replicate in large numbers weakening the immune system that triggers an inflammatory reaction.
Fatigue and headache
This is caused due to the inflammatory response by your body’s natural immune system. You may start feeling abnormally tired and unusually lethargic. Sometimes you may experience shortness of breath. This symptom may be experienced either during the early stages or later,
Swollen lymph nodes, aching muscles, and pain in the joints
The lymph nodes form part of the immune system and are responsible for protecting the blood by eliminating viruses and bacteria from the body. In case of an infection, they get inflamed. The lymph nodes are usually found under the armpits, neck and groin regions and may be responsible for muscle aches and joint pains.
Skin rash
This can be either an early or a late HIV symptom. Sometimes the rashes can appear as pink patches or itchy boils that break out.
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
These are problems of the digestive system and may come as part of the early signs of HIV infection. However, they can also appear as later stage symptoms especially in case of opportunistic infections coming into the equation.
Proper hydration may help in cases of unremitting diarrhea where a lot of water is lost.
A dry cough and sore throat
A dry and severe cough lasting for weeks to months without resolving even with antibiotics should prompt you to seek HIV diagnosis immediately.
Night Sweats
Sweating profusely while asleep is not normal and may be part of the early symptoms of HIV. The night sweats may become worse with time I the later stages and may not be related to high temperatures in the room or exercise.
If you experience any of these signs a week or two after getting exposed to risks of HIV infection like unprotected sex or drug injection, it is prudent to go for HIV testing. This is what will ensure proper diagnosis. Sometimes these signs may not be evident, but if you think you have been exposed, you need to get tested as quickly as possible. Remember, the sooner you get diagnosed and start HIV medication the better. You can manage your HIV condition and be able to lead a better quality of life for a more extended period almost the same as the rest of the population.
References:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10158782.2012.11441502
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2146153/
https://endinghiv.org.au/blog/7-symptoms-of-hiv-early-stages/
https://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/understanding-aids-hiv-symptoms#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/hiv-aids/symptoms-men#symptoms
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