The human immunodeficiency virus, commonly referred to as HIV, is a contagious disease that is transmitted through exposure to bodily fluids, including sperm, vaginal fluid and blood. Initially, the side effects of HIV can be minor and might disappear and re-emerge several years later. Even if you do not experience HIV side effects, you can still transmit the disease to a partner or unborn child. If you are sexually active, be sure to have regular HIV tests and discuss the side effects of HIV with your doctor.
Flu-like Symptoms
If you are infected with HIV, flu-like symptoms can develop as the initial side effects of this disease. These flu-like symptoms can include a low-grade fever, sore throat, joint or muscle pain or headache. These symptoms typically arise within two to four weeks after exposure to HIV, explain doctors at The Mayo Clinic, and can persist for two or more weeks. Certain HIV patients also develop enlarged lymph glands in the neck or armpits, which are tender to the touch and can remain swollen for several months. Seek medical care immediately if you believe you have been exposed to HIV and develop any of these flu-like side effects.
Skin Lesions or Ulcers
During the initial stages of HIV infection, you can develop skin lesions or ulcers on your body. Ulcers can form internally, within the mouth or digestive tract, or externally, near the anus or genital region. Skin ulcers can be red, irritated and swollen and might be painful to the touch, explains Up To Date, a peer-reviewed medical information website for patients. A skin rash might also develop as a side effect of HIV infection. You can notice the appearance of red, swollen patches of skin across your upper body, neck or face, which can extend into your legs. These skin rash side effects typically persist for about seven days before resolving.
Chronic Diarrhea
You can develop chronic diarrhea as a side effect of HIV, a condition that is characterized by the frequent urge to have a bowel movement that produces loose, watery stools. Diarrhea is considered chronic if this side effect persists for at least three months. Chronic diarrhea can also be accompanied by additional stomach-related side effects, such as nausea, vomiting or decreased appetite, warns Up To Date.
Excessive Sweating
Profuse sweating can occur as a side effect of HIV in infected people--especially during the night. Certain patients might wake frequently throughout the night because of night sweats, which leave bed linens and clothing soaked in sweat. This HIV side effect typically worsens as the disease progresses and can occur in conjunction with flu-like symptoms, such as fever.
Weight Loss
During the later stages of this disease, patients can experience rapid and significant weight loss as a side effect of HIV, warn health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Weight loss can occur as a side effect of chronic diarrhea, nausea, decreased appetite, excessive sweating or muscle loss associated with this infection.
Fatigue
You can experience pronounced fatigue as a side effect of HIV, explains The Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of fatigue can be severe and will significantly affect your ability to remain alert and focused. If you are infected with HIV, you can continue to feel tired or drowsy even after sleeping for several hours.
