People infected with the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV may develop acute or primary stage symptoms approximately two to four weeks after their initial exposure to the virus, the University of Washington reports. Acute stage HIV symptoms can be difficult to detect, as they often mimic symptoms related to the flu or a common cold.
Headache or Fever
This type of infection may induce an increase in a patient's body temperature, a side effect called fever. A fever arises as defense mechanism initiated by the immune system to limit the growth and spread of pathogens through the body. In addition to fever, patients with acute HIV infection may also experience headache pain, chills, flushing or excessive perspiration.
Muscle Aches or Fatigue
A primary HIV infection may cause patients to experience muscle aches or pain, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Muscle stiffness or aching may contribute to increased fatigue and can make it difficult for patients with this infection to participate in their usual physical activities, such as walking to work or carrying groceries.
Nausea or Diarrhea
Upset stomach symptoms, including nausea or diarrhea, may occur during the early stage of HIV infection. Patients who experience these symptoms may also develop abdominal cramping or bloating, which can lead to loss of appetite or weight loss.
Swollen Glands
The lymphatic system is composed, in part, of lymph glands, which help clear toxic substances from the blood. Patients with acute HIV may notice that the lymph glands underneath their armpits or within their groin or neck appear unusually enlarged or swollen due to this infection. The protruding skin regions may be tender or sensitive to the touch, though the swollen glands are typically painless for most patients.
Skin Rash
A skin rash may develop as a symptom of acute HIV infection, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The affected skin regions may appear red or inflamed and may feel itchy.
Sore Throat
Inflammation of the tissue that lines the throat may occur as a symptom of primary HIV infection. Sore throat symptoms may cause painful or difficulty swallowing, which may exacerbate appetite loss. Certain people may also develop irritated skin lesions within the mouth or along the throat. These skin lesions may appear red and inflamed and lead to oral pain.
