Common Early HIV/AIDS Signs And Symptoms You Need To Know
HIV symptoms vary by individual, although the initial signs of infection often occur within the first 1-2 months. Many people, but not all, will have severe flu-like symptoms as a natural response to the virus. This is known as the “seroconversion” stage.
It is critical at this point to determine whether HIV is the cause, as your viral load is extremely high, increasing your risk of passing it on. The only way to know for sure is to get tested.
1.Flu-like symptoms.
HIV infection frequently begins with flu-like symptoms within the first few weeks after exposure. Symptoms may include fever, tiredness, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches. While these symptoms may resemble those of the flu or other viral diseases, they often last longer in HIV-infected people.
2. Rash
Rash is a typical early sign of HIV infection. It typically manifests as a reddish rash on the trunk of the body, which may be accompanied by irritation.
No single rash is specific to HIV. As HIV involves changes in the immune system, it can trigger a variety of skin reactions.
However, the rash that occurs at the early stage usually appears flushed, discolored, or reddish, in people with fair skin, or dark purplish in people with dark skin. The blemishes are flat and there may be mild itchiness.
Symptoms with an HIV rash:
A rash can be an early sign of HIV, occurring as a result of seroconversion. This is the acute, or early stage of HIV, which usually occurs 2–4 weeks after exposure to the virus.
During the seroconversion or acute HIV stage, the body produces antibodies to the virus. Between half and 80–90% of all people with HIV experience flu-like symptoms at this stage and some people may develop a rash.
Sometimes, a rash is the only symptom of HIV, but because HIV impacts the immune system, there are often other symptoms, too.
The HIV rash normally heals on its own, but it may return later in the infection.
3. Fever
Fever is usually one of the first symptoms of HIV. When you have a fever your body temperature increases above a normal range, and often results in sweating, chills and shivering. Fever is often accompanied by other mild symptoms, such as fatigue, swollen lymph glands, and a sore throat. At this point the virus is moving into the blood stream and starting to replicate in large numbers. As that happens, your immune system induces an inflammatory reaction.
4. Fatigue And Headache
Your immune system’s inflammatory response can leave you feeling fatigued and lethargic. It may cause you to feel winded while walking or out of breath in general. Fatigue can be an early or late sign of HIV.
There are various factors that might cause a person to feel tired, so pay attention to your body and lifestyle to see if you can make any conclusions. If your fatigue persists, consult your doctor.
5. Swollen Lymph Nodes, Achy Muscles And Joint Pains
Lymph nodes are part of your body’s immune system and protect your blood by getting rid of bacteria and viruses. They tend to get inflamed when there’s an infection. Many of them are located in your armpit, groin and neck which can result in aches and pains in these areas.
Given these symptoms are common across many viral infections, they alone are not a reliable way to determine if the infection you are experiencing is HIV.
6. Nausea, Vomiting And Diarrhoea
Many patients suffer from digestive difficulties as a result of the early stages of HIV. However, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea might occur later in the infection, typically as a result of an opportunistic infection.
It is crucial to stay hydrated. Diarrhoea that persists and does not respond to standard treatment may be an indicator of HIV, and it is best to consult a doctor to ascertain the cause.
7. Sore Throat And Dry Cough
A severe, dry cough that can last for weeks to months without seeming to resolve (even with antibiotics and inhalers) is a typical symptom in very ill HIV patients.
A dry cough is a common symptom of HIV, and it can be persistent and long-lasting. It usually starts off as an occasional cough that may become more frequent over time. The cough is typically dry and non-productive, meaning it does not produce phlegm or mucus. It may also be accompanied by shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. The cough can sometimes last for weeks or months without seeming to resolve. The frequency of these coughing spells will vary depending on the person’s overall health condition and treatment plan.
Any person with persistent symptoms such as these should see a doctor, especially if symptoms are worsening.
8. Night Sweats:
Night sweats are episodes of excessive perspiration that cause bedding and nightclothes to become drenched. Many persons develop night sweats in the early stages of HIV. These can become more common later in the infection and are unrelated to exercise or room temperature.Get tested if signs of HIV arise.
With such a wide range of symptoms, HIV testing is critical to making an accurate diagnosis. If you believe you have been exposed to HIV or have an active sex life with casual sex partners, regardless of whether you are experiencing HIV symptoms or not, you should get tested as soon as possible.
