What are HIV symptoms? This is
the question I get more than any other. But because many people who have been
infected with HIV have few or no HIV symptoms initially, testing is the only way
to know for sure if you are infected with HIV. There are, however, an assortment
of HIV symptoms that can be associated with a new infection.
Symptoms Early After Infection - Acute HIV - In emergency departments and family
practice offices, people come in with symptoms like fever, headache, muscle and
joint pain, sore throat, rash and diarrhea. In response to these symptoms,
physicians diagnose the flu and send the patient on their way. In the majority
of cases, their diagnosis proves correct. But unfortunately, a number of people
with these vague, indistinct symptoms have a more serious illness than the flu;
these symptoms may signal the acute stages of HIV infection.
Acute HIV - Recognize the Symptoms
Symptoms of the Immune System - The immune system is the body's natural defense
against invading foreign agents such as viruses and bacteria. HIV attacks the
immune system, weakening it and making the body more susceptible to infection.
After infection, some symptoms affect the immune system.
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, axilla, or groin (lymphadenopathy)
Fever / night sweats
Symptoms of the GI Tract - HIV can have a profound affect on the
gastrointestinal system and nutrition. Like any virus, HIV can cause symptoms
ranging from poor appetite to diarrhea. Here are some of the most common:
Rapid weight loss
Diarrhea
Poor appetite
Profound fatigue
Respiratory Symptoms - Some of the most serious symptoms of HIV involve the
respiratory system. Symptoms associated with breathing and respiration usually
occur later in course of the disease. Unfortunately, many people's first symptom
of HIV involves the respiratory system, illustrating why HIV testing is so
important. Any cough or shortness of breath could be a sign of bacterial
pneumonia or pneumocystis (carinii) jiroveci pneumonia (PCP).
Shortness of breath
Dry cough / productive cough
Symptoms of the Skin and Mucous Membranes - Many of the symptoms of HIV are a
result of infection by other viruses, fungi or bacteria. Often, these infections
involve the skin or mucous membranes (for example, inside the mouth).
HIV Effects on Dental Health
Skin rash
Red, brown, pink or purple lesion on the skin - suggestive of Kaposi's sarcoma
White patches on the tounge, inside of the mouth, or gums - could be signs of
thrush, candida, or hairy oral leukoplakia
Canker sores / apthous ulcers
Neurological / Emotional Symptoms - Very early on in the epidemic, experts
realized that HIV affected both the physical and emotional self. Neurological
and emotional symptoms of HIV can include the following.
Depression
Numbness, tingling, or burning in the feet, hands, or face. (peripheral
neuropathy)
Confusion, weakness, or changes in level of conciousness