What are the symptoms of HIV infection?
Many people infected with HIV have no symptoms at all and may be unaware that they carry the virus. Some people may develop mild, temporary flu-like symptoms that disappear after a few days or weeks following infection. Others may have persistent swollen glands. The earlier HIV infection is detected, the sooner medical treatment can begin, which may help people stay healthier longer. Many of the symptoms of advancing HIV disease are similar to other health problems not related to HIV. The following symptoms should prompt a medical visit to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Many people do not develop any symptoms when they first become infected with HIV. Some people, however, get a flu-like illness within three to six weeks after exposure to the virus. Some people who contract HIV experience very strong symptoms, but others experience none at all. Those who do have symptoms generally experience fever, fatigue, and, often, rash. Other common symptoms can include headache, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat. These symptoms can occur within days or weeks of the initial exposure to the virus during a period called primary or acute HIV infection. The symptoms of early infection can also be similar to the symptoms of other sexually transmitted diseases and other infections such as “mono” or hepatitis, which are much more commonly and more easily transmitted. Stress and anxiety can also produce symptoms in some people, even though they do not have HIV. Some of these symptoms can start to appear as late as 10 years after infection or more. Once the primary or a
