The symptoms of PLHIV (People Living with HIV) can vary widely, especially depending on the stage of infection. Initially, many people experience flu-like symptoms, while later stages can involve more serious conditions.
Early-Stage HIV Symptoms
Many people infected with HIV experience initial symptoms similar to the flu. These can include:
- Fever: An elevated body temperature is a common sign.
- Chills: Feeling cold and shivering can occur.
- Rash: Skin rashes may appear on different parts of the body.
- Night Sweats: Experiencing excessive sweating during the night.
- Muscle Aches: Pain and discomfort in muscles.
- Sore Throat: Having pain or irritation in the throat.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged glands, typically in the neck, armpits, or groin.
These early symptoms, often referred to as acute retroviral syndrome, may last for a few weeks. However, not everyone experiences them, and some individuals might have no symptoms at all in the early stages.
Later-Stage HIV Symptoms
If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Symptoms at this stage are more severe and can include:
- Persistent fatigue: Constant tiredness not relieved by rest.
- Rapid weight loss: Losing weight without trying.
- Recurrent fevers or night sweats: Ongoing episodes of high temperature and excessive sweating at night.
- Swelling of lymph glands: Persistent enlargement of lymph nodes.
- Diarrhea: Prolonged and severe bowel issues.
- Neurological problems: Cognitive and movement issues.
- Opportunistic infections: Susceptibility to infections that a healthy immune system can fight off, such as Pneumocystis pneumonia and Kaposi's sarcoma.
Important Considerations
It's important to note:
- Symptom Variability: Not everyone will experience the same symptoms, and some may have no symptoms.
- Testing is Crucial: The only way to know for sure if someone has HIV is to get tested.
- Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) early can help manage the virus, prevent progression to AIDS, and reduce the risk of transmission.
Table of Symptoms
| Symptom | Early Stage | Late Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Yes | Yes |
| Chills | Yes | Yes |
| Rash | Yes | No |
| Night Sweats | Yes | Yes |
| Muscle Aches | Yes | No |
| Sore Throat | Yes | No |
| Fatigue | Yes | Yes |
| Swollen Lymph Nodes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight Loss | No | Yes |
| Diarrhea | No | Yes |
| Neurological problems | No | Yes |
| Opportunistic Infections | No | Yes |
