HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is contracted through an exchange of bodily fluid, such as through sexual intercourse or by sharing intravenous needles. HIV gradually destroys the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off the infection. While it can take up to three months after infection for HIV blood results to change to HIV positive, you can display symptoms within days or weeks of exposure; these early symptoms are known as primary or acute HIV infection.
Symptoms
There are a variety of different symptoms associated with an early HIV infection, but they are similar to symptoms of other diseases, so it is not easy to diagnose HIV based on symptoms alone. The hallmark symptoms of early HIV include swollen lymph nodes, sore throats, fatigue, fever, headaches and rashes. An example of a rash associated with HIV is seborrheic dermatitis, which has flaky white or yellowish scales that form on oily skin, such as the ear; the surrounding skin may or may not be red.
Asymptomatic
It is possible to contract HIV and not display any of the symptoms. This type of HIV is known as asymptomatic HIV. Asymptomatic HIV is common when you first come in contact with the virus; some people may have no symptoms for up to 10 years after getting HIV. However, it is important to note that while you may not display HIV symptoms, you can still pass the virus on to others.
Diagnosis
The only way to diagnosis HIV is through a blood test. A common tests is the HIV ELISA/Western blot, which detects the HIV antibodies in the blood. However, if you came in contact with HIV less than three months ago, your blood test may not come back HIV positive. You should get an HIV test every six months if you are sexually active or have multiple partners.
Complications
Because HIV leads to the deterioration of the immune system, you become susceptible to other diseases. These include cancers, chronic wasting, HIV dementia and lipodystrophy. In addition, HIV can result in a variety of different infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, bacillary angiomatosis, candidiasis, cytomegalovirus infection and a salmonella infection in the bloodstream.
Warning
There is no cure for HIV. While medication is available to help with the symptoms of HIV, it does not diminish the presence of the virus. Contracting HIV can be avoided by abstaining from sexual intercourse, using a condom and not sharing intravenous needles.
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