HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a lentivirus that belongs to the retrovirus family, causing a condition known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). AIDS weakens the immune system, increasing vulnerability to various infections and cancers. HIV attacks specific white blood cells that are crucial for fighting off diseases and infections. As these immune cells deteriorate, the body's defense mechanisms fail, leading to a higher risk of serious health issues. It may take years for an initial HIV infection to progress to AIDS, during which health problems can become severe.
Early Signs of HIV in Men
Early HIV symptoms in men often resemble flu-like or mononucleosis symptoms and may appear within 2 to 4 weeks of infection. However, some individuals may experience no symptoms initially. Studies show that approximately 40%-90% of those infected with HIV experience early symptoms like the following:
- Fever and Headache: Mild to moderate fever, often accompanied by chills, headaches, and sweating, is one of the common early HIV symptoms in men and women, occurring within 2 to 4 weeks post-infection.
- Open Sores or Ulcers: Painful sores or ulcers may develop early in the infection, primarily in the mouth or throat, and occasionally in the anus or genital areas.
Key Symptoms of HIV Infection
After the initial infection phase, known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS), there is usually an asymptomatic period (clinical latency). During this phase, HIV remains present but dormant. Eventually, this stage progresses to symptomatic HIV infection, where the virus replicates, and immune function begins to fail. Symptoms at this stage may include persistent fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
How HIV Spreads
HIV transmission occurs primarily through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Here are the main transmission routes:
- Unprotected Sexual Contact: Engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an HIV-positive individual can result in transmission if bodily fluids enter the body.
- Sharing Needles or Syringes: Using unsterile needles, often during intravenous drug use, can also spread HIV.
- Mother-to-Child Transmission: HIV-positive mothers can pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
HIV Diagnosis and Treatment Options
HIV testing has advanced significantly. Initially, the ELISA test (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was widely used to detect HIV antibodies. A positive result requires confirmation through a second test and a follow-up Western Blot test to detect HIV proteins. However, as antibodies can take time to develop, a newer test called HIV antigen testing provides faster detection by identifying HIV proteins soon after infection, offering accurate results within days of exposure.
While there is no cure for HIV/AIDS, effective treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Modern medications help suppress HIV symptoms and enhance patient life expectancy. Today, a range of antiretroviral therapies (ART) effectively target HIV, slowing disease progression and preventing related complications.
Associated Health Risks
HIV/AIDS increases the likelihood of contracting opportunistic infections and illnesses, such as tuberculosis, candidiasis, and cryptococcal meningitis. There is also an increased risk of neurological disorders, kidney disease, and cancers, including Kaposi’s sarcoma and lymphoma. Early detection of HIV, however, can help manage the disease and reduce symptom severity. Anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to HIV is encouraged to get tested, as early diagnosis is critical for treatment success.