Signs and Symptoms of HIV in Men and Women

A major global health concern, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) affects both men and women. For prompt diagnosis and treatment, it is essential to recognise its symptoms. Although each person may experience different symptoms, early detection can enhance quality of life and stop the development of AIDS. According to the National Aids Control Organisation, an estimated 23.48 lakh Indians were predicted to be HIV positive in 2019. In this article, we discuss in detail the early signs and symptoms of HIV in men and women. We also discuss the major causes of HIV.

What is HIV? 

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) affects the immune system by destroying CD4 cells (T cells), essential for fighting against infection. If left untreated, HIV weakens the body’s ability to fight illnesses, potentially leading to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV spreads through contact with infected blood, sperm, vaginal fluids, or breast milk. The illness can be adequately managed with early diagnosis and treatment.

When Do HIV Symptoms Start to Show? 

HIV symptoms often occur 2 to 4 weeks after infection. If treatment is not received, HIV develops through three primary stages, each of which has a unique effect on the body.

Stage 1: Acute HIV Infection

Acute HIV infection, which happens two to four weeks after transmission, is the first stage of HIV and is distinguished by high infectiousness and rapid viral replication.

Acute infection signs may include the following:

● Fever
● Fatigue and sore throat
● Swollen lymph nodes
● Joint and muscle pain
● Headache
● Rashes
● Genital and oral ulcers
● Weight loss
● Chronic cough

Stage 2: Chronic HIV infection

In stage 2 HIV, the virus continues to replicate during this stage but at a slower rate. Although this timeframe varies from person to person, Stage 2 HIV may take approximately ten years to advance to Stage 3.

These are some indicators of Stage 2 HIV:

● Swollen lymph nodes
● Weight loss
● Night sweats
● Oral thrush (fungal infection)
● Pneumonia
● Gum infection

Stage 3: AIDS

In stage 3, or AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the immune system has been significantly compromised at this time, leaving the body prone to opportunistic infections and some cancers. AIDS drastically reduces life expectancy and necessitates prompt medical attention if left untreated.

Common signs of AIDS include

● Quick weight loss
● Prolonged diarrhoea
● Extreme tiredness
● Swollen lymph nodes
● Night sweats or a persistent fever
● Unusual infections (such as tuberculosis and pneumonia)
● Rashes on the skin
● Memory loss
● Skin discolouration

What are the Symptoms of HIV in Men? 

Specific symptoms of HIV in men are:

1. Genital sores or ulcers: painful sores on the oral, vaginal, or anal regions that are frequently brought on by co-infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is more prevalent in HIV-positive people.
2. Erectile dysfunction: This problem is related to sexual experience, which may be decreased by hormonal abnormalities or the psychological impacts of HIV infection.
3. Painful urination or discharge: Unusual discharge from the penis or discomfort during urination are symptoms of urethritis, an inflammation of the urethra that is associated with HIV infections.
4. Reduced libido: A diminished interest in sexual activity is frequently brought on by psychological, emotional, or physical causes, such as stress or disease.

What are the Symptoms of HIV in Women? 

Specific symptoms of HIV in women are:

1. Vaginal irritation or sores: HIV can result in vaginal ulcers or sores, which can make sexual activity uncomfortable and raise the risk of infection.
2. Abnormal menstrual cycles: HIV may alter the regularity or flow of menstruation by affecting hormonal balance.
3. Increased vaginal discharge: Unusual increases in vaginal discharge in certain HIV-positive women may be a sign of an infection or the virus’s impact on the reproductive system.
4. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): PID, a disorder involving inflammation of the reproductive organs that can cause pain and discomfort in the abdomen, is more likely to affect women with HIV since the virus impairs their immune systems.

What are the Causes of HIV?

The primary causes of HIV are:

1. Unprotected sexual contact: Having intercourse with an HIV-positive partner without using a condom, whether vaginally, anally, or orally.
2. Sharing needles: Getting tattoos or using infected needles for drug usage.
3. Mother-to-child transmission: HIV-positive mothers can transmit the virus to their children through pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
4. Blood transfusion or organ transplantation: Receiving contaminated blood or organs from an HIV-positive donor.

Recognising symptoms of HIV, such as fatigue, skin changes, and immune system issues, is important for early treatment, reducing the risk of transmission, and maintaining health.

If someone experiences any of these symptoms, they should consult a doctor and schedule an HIV test with Dr Lal PathLabs.

FAQs

Is there a cure for HIV?

Currently, there is no cure for HIV, but treatments can effectively manage the condition.

How can someone protect themselves from HIV?

To protect themselves from HIV, individuals should avoid sharing needles, limit the number of partners, get tested regularly, and use condoms.

Can HIV be transmitted through casual contact?

No, HIV cannot be spread through casual contact like hugging.