Signs and Symptoms of HIV: What You Need to Know at Every Stage

By  at November 29, 2024  , , , , ,  No comments





The early stages of HIV infection typically present nonspecific signs and symptoms. Within days to weeks after exposure, people often develop flu-like symptoms, a rash, and fatigue. However, some will have no symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, symptoms vary depending on the stage.


Stage 1: Acute HIV Infection (Early Stage)


Stage 1 typically occurs within 2 to 4 weeks after HIV transmission. Early symptoms are often mild and may include:

  • Fever
  • Skin rash
  • Headaches
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Nasal congestion
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Mouth ulcers
These symptoms are often mistaken for the flu or another mild illness, leading many to underestimate the severity. Although symptoms can be mild or absent, the virus is still present in the bloodstream, and individuals can easily transmit it to others.


Stage 2: Chronic HIV Infection (Latency Stage)


Stage 2 can last up to 10 years, though this period may vary. Some people may not show symptoms, which makes it also be referred to as the asymptomatic phase. Others may experience:

During this stage, the virus continues to replicate but at lower levels than in Stage 1.


Stage 3: AIDS (Advanced HIV)


Stage 3, also known as AIDS, is a stage where the immune system is significantly weakened. Symptoms include:

  • Rapid weight loss
  • Fever or night sweats
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Swollen lymph nodes for more than two months
  • Sores in the mouth or genitals
  • Diarrhea
  • Pneumonia
  • Skin discoloration
  • Neurological problems, such as memory loss or depression
This stage leaves them susceptible to opportunistic infections, which include fungal infections, certain cancers, tuberculosis, and HIV wasting syndrome.


Gender Differences in Symptoms of HIV While many early symptoms are the same in males and females, there are some gender-specific signs and symptoms. Females can have genital yeast infections and menstrual abnormalities. Males can experience penile ulcers or erectile dysfunction. Nonbinary and transgender people also have additional risk factors and may experience similar signs and symptoms but may have their health needs inadequately cared for due to stigma or discrimination.




As of 2023, there are an estimated 20.5 million women and 18.1 million men living with HIV worldwide. However, in terms of new cases, men, especially those having male-to-male sexual exposure, are more affected. In the U.S., rates of HIV have declined 12% from 2018 to 2022, though rates vary significantly across different populations.



The only sure way of confirming HIV infection is by testing for it. There are several test types:

  1. Antibody Tests: Detects antibodies in blood or other bodily fluids, with results available in 3 to 12 weeks.
  2. Antigen/Antibody Tests: Identifies both antibodies and the p24 antigen, which appears shortly after infection. Results may take 2 to 12 weeks.
  3. Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT): Detects HIV virus directly in blood, with results available in 1 to 5 weeks.
Tests done at home are also available and can provide results in 20 minutes, but confirmation testing by a health professional is necessary.


How Often Should You Test for HIV?


The CDC recommends routine HIV testing for everyone between ages 13-64, and for those with risk factors such as:

  1. Having unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner
  2. Having multiple sexual partners
  3. Sharing drug injection equipment
  4. Being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection or tuberculosis


Due to effective treatment, specifically antiretroviral therapy (ART) individuals with HIV can lead long and healthy lives. ART decreases the levels of HIV in the body while building up the body's immune system. With the right treatment and modification in lifestyle, such as regular exercise and cessation from smoking, one is capable of maintaining and living with HIV without allowing its advancement towards AIDS.


Summary


HIV has stages of development, and its early symptoms are similar to mild diseases. Later stages can have serious symptoms, which include the destruction of the immune system, hence making the body susceptible to infection. While the disease remains a significant global concern, with proper diagnosis and ongoing treatment, people with HIV can live healthy lives and manage the condition effectively.

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