As of July 2010, more than 1 million people are estimated to be living with the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The initial or primary symptoms of HIV infection can be difficult to detect because they often mimic more common infections, such as the flu. People who develop flu-like symptoms after engaging in certain risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex or sharing drug needles, should be tested for HIV at a medical clinic.
Fever, Night Sweats or Headache
Approximately 70 percent of people infected with HIV develop flu-like symptoms within the first 6 to 12 weeks following exposure to the virus, the San Francisco AIDS Foundation warns. Initial flu-like symptoms may include a low-grade fever, which can occur in conjunction with night sweats, chills or headache symptoms. A fever response is generated by the body's immune system to help limit the replication and spread of HIV throughout the body. These symptoms of infection typically persist for 1 to 2 weeks before subsiding. Despite the apparent resolution of symptoms, people with HIV should be aware that they can still transmit this infection to others.
Enlarged Lymph Glands
The lymphatic system, which includes the lymph glands, helps protect the body against infection. People with HIV may develop unusually swollen or enlarged lymph glands due to the presence of this infection in the body, MayoClinic.com reports. Enlarged lymph glands are generally painless, but may persist for several weeks, months or years in those with this infection.
Sore Throat
A mild sore throat may occur as a flu-like symptom in people with HIV. The back of a person's throat may appear unusually red or inflamed. Throat discomfort can lead to difficulty swallowing and a diminished appetite in affected people.
Fatigue and Muscle Aches
HIV can cause flu-like symptoms of fatigue and muscle aches in infected people. Achy body pain may exacerbate fatigue symptoms and can make it difficult for people with this infection to participate in their usual daily activities. These symptoms of HIV typically subside within two weeks of onset, UpToDate reports.
References
- San Francisco AIDS Foundation: The Stages of HIV Disease - Primary Infection (or Acute Infection)
- MayoClinic.com: STD Symptoms - Common STDs and Their Symptoms - HIV Symptoms
- UpToDate: Symptoms of HIV Infection - HIV Symptoms
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HIV in the United States
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center: HIV/AIDS
