The early symptoms of HIV can vary from person to person and depend on the stage of the disease they are in. Some people may not have any symptoms at all during the early stage of HIV, while others may experience flu-like symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks after infection, which is called acute retroviral syndrome or primary HIV infection. The symptoms of acute HIV infection can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Rash
- Night sweats
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Mouth ulcers
- Red rash that doesnt itch, usually on your torso
- Headache
- Aching muscles
- Joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Ulcers (sores) in your mouth, esophagus, anus, or genitals
These symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, some people may not experience any early symptoms after they’ve contracted HIV. Its important to note that these symptoms can be similar to those caused by other illnesses, so they are not a reliable way to tell if you’re infected with HIV. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, its recommended to get an HIV test.
If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which is the late stage of HIV infection. Symptoms of AIDS can include:
- Rapid weight loss
- Recurring fever or profuse night sweats
- Extreme and unexplained tiredness
- Prolonged swelling of the lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck
- Diarrhea that lasts for more than a week
- Sores of the mouth, anus, or genitals
- Pneumonia
- Red, brown, pink, or purplish blotches on or under the skin
Its important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible if you think you may have been infected with HIV or are at risk of contracting the virus. Early treatment using antiretroviral drugs can make the virus undetectable, which can prevent transmission to other people.
