HIV is a chronic lifelong disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. HIV can be contracted through sexual relations with an infected person, contaminated needles, or during childbirth and breast-feeding through mother-to-child transmission. There is no cure for HIV, but there are many medications and treatments available to help prolong life. Once the body's CD4 cell count falls beneath 200 per cubic milliliters of blood and/or one develops an opportunistic infection, a patient is considered to have AIDS. Although some patients will not develop early symptoms of HIV, there are some common symptoms that patients should be aware of.
Headache and Fever
Some patients may experience headache and fever when infected with HIV. According to MayoClinic.com, early HIV symptoms usually disappear within a week to a month and are often mistaken for those of another viral infection. People who have engaged in behavior that may have put them at risk for acquiring HIV that experience headache and fever should consult a health care provider. Once a patient experiences symptoms of HIV infection, he is contagious and may be able to spread this virus to others.
Swollen Lymph Glands and Fatigue
Swollen lymph glands and fatigue are common early signs of HIV infection, reports MayoClinic.com. Although swollen lymph glands may appear anywhere on the body, they are more likely to appear in the neck area. They may be visible to the eye and may or may not be tender to the touch. Fatigue may also occur during this time. These symptoms may appear around 2 to 4 weeks following initial infection. HIV can be diagnosed by a simple saliva or blood test. If a patient has been exposed to HIV and has a negative HIV test, she should take another test in approximately three months. It may take the body a period of time to develop enough antibodies for detection.
Rash
According to MedlinePlus, a rash of various types, including seborrheic dermatitis, may occur during early infection with the HIV virus. The HIV rash may appear as slightly raised, and small and dark in color. This rash may be more likely to appear on the face, trunk, hands and feet. The HIV rash may occur in conjunction with headache, fever, swollen lymph glands and fatigue.
