HIV is an illness caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. It can be spread through sexual contact with an infected person, contaminated needles or blood products, or during childbirth or breast feeding through mother to child transmission. Symptoms of primary infection can vary depending on the individual. Some can become infected with HIV and not exhibit symptoms for several years. There are some symptoms associated with primary HIV infection.
Headache and Fever
Headache and fever can occur following infection with the HIV virus. These symptoms may appear around 2 to 4 weeks following initial infection and may occur alone or in conjunction with other symptoms. Symptoms usually disappear within a week to a month and are often mistaken for those of another viral infection, explains Mayo Clinic. It is during this time period that the body is going through a process called seroconversion, as the body develops antibodies to the virus. Once seroconversion has occurred, a person may test positive for HIV. It may take a few months for enough antibodies to build up in the blood stream for detection through serum or saliva testing.
Swollen Lymph Glands
Swollen lymph glands can occur during primary infection with HIV. They can appear anywhere on the body but may be more likely to appear in the neck, armpit, or groin region. Nodes can be painless or tender to the touch. Although swollen lymph glands can be a symptom of HIV, they may also indicate another type of infectious process in the body. Patients who develop swollen lymph glands should seek medical attention.
Rash
Those who have been exposed to HIV may develop a rash during the period of primary infection. The HIV rash can appear anywhere on the body but may be more likely to occur on the face or trunk. This rash can appear as slightly raised, and small and dark in color. This symptom is more likely to occur at or around the time of seroconversion and can occur alone or in conjunction with other signs and symptoms.
