Many people experience severe flu-like symptoms which is the body’s natural response to the virus and is an indicator that you may have been exposed to something sinister.
If you have an active sex life or think you may have been exposed to HIV, it is important that you get tested as soon as possible.
Here are some common symptoms of HIV in men that may alert you that something is wrong.
Phases of an HIV infection:
Time is of the essence. Getting yourself tested and beginning treatment immediately ensures that you keep your immune system intact as much as possible. Getting treated with HIV medications will also practically eliminate your chances of transmitting your HIV to others.
Phase 1: Acute illness
Symptoms of an acute HIV infection
- body rash
- fever
- sore throat
- severe headaches
Less common symptoms may include:
- fatigue
- swollen lymph nodes
- ulcers in the mouth or on the genitals
- muscle aches
- joint pain
- nausea and vomiting
- night sweats
Phase 2: Asymptomatic period
- nausea
- vomiting
- persistent diarrhea
- chronic fatigue
- rapid weight loss
- cough and shortness of breath
- recurring fever, chills, and night sweats
- rashes, sores, or lesions in the mouth or nose, on the genitals, or under the skin
- prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpits, groin, or neck
- memory loss, confusion, or neurological disorders
Symptoms of AIDS
The diagnosis of “AIDS” is only given if HIV has damaged your immune system to such an extent that you become ill from an infection that your body would normally have been able to fight off.
When faced with the prospect of AIDS, it will always makes sense to get treated. Thanks to the treatment, “AIDS” is a stage that you never have to reach. It will take longer before your immune system gets back to strength, however.