Don’t Ignore These Signs: It Might Be Time to Check Your HIV Status

Because the signs of HIV can be hard to spot, it is essential to keep a record of the steps you take to lower your risk of becoming infected. The symptoms of HIV are frequently confused with those of the flu. 

The fact that the virus does not follow a seasonal pattern is the most notable distinction. This means that it affects people throughout the entire year and not just during the winter and spring months when the majority of flu symptoms manifest themselves.

A fever, which can be as high as 106 degrees Fahrenheit or 41 degrees Celsius or higher, is the first sign of an HIV infection. However, you could also be experiencing other symptoms such as.

Aches and pains throughout the body, fever, aches in the muscles and fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, diarrhea and vomiting, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) in the neck, armpits, or groin, dizziness, fainting, and low blood pressure, and loss of weight are all symptoms that can be caused by the infection. 

Direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected individual and/or body parts from someone who has an open cut or wound is how HIV is transmitted from one person to another. In addition to having sexual contact without protection, sharing needles for injectable drug use, and using tattoo needles that have not been sterilized, other risk factors for HIV infection include the following: https://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/understanding-aids-hiv-symptoms

Having sexual contact with a person who has a cut or wound that isn’t covered by a bandage and who is bleeding openly.

Engaging in unprotected sexual activity with more than one partner.

Obtaining tattoos or acupuncture without first sterilizing the equipment used for such procedure.