HIV affects 1.2 million Americans; approximately 13% don't know they're infected. With modern antiretroviral therapy (ART), people with HIV live near-normal lifespans. The key is early detection and consistent treatment.
When to See a Doctor
⚠️ See doctor soonGet tested for HIV if you haven't had a recent test, especially if you have had unprotected sex or shared needles. The CDC recommends at least one HIV test for everyone aged 13-64. See a doctor immediately if you've had a potential exposure — PrEP and PEP are highly effective preventive treatments.
Early Warning Signs
2 symptomsAcute flu-like illness (2-4 weeks after exposure)
About 40-90% of people experience an acute HIV syndrome: fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, rash, headache, and muscle aches — 2-4 weeks after infection.
Swollen lymph nodes
Persistent lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin) can be an early and long-lasting sign.
Common Symptoms
1 symptomNo symptoms (latent phase)
After the acute phase, HIV can remain clinically silent for years while slowly depleting CD4 cells. Without treatment, symptoms progress.
Advanced Symptoms
4 symptomsRecurring fevers and night sweats
As immune function declines, the body struggles to fight ordinary infections, causing repeated fevers and drenching night sweats.
Rapid unexplained weight loss
Wasting syndrome — significant unintended weight loss — occurs as HIV advances without treatment.
Oral thrush (white tongue coating)
Candida overgrowth in the mouth, causing white patches on the tongue and inner cheeks, is common with declining immune function.
Opportunistic infections
AIDS is defined by CD4 count under 200 or an AIDS-defining opportunistic infection (PCP pneumonia, toxoplasmosis, CMV retinitis, etc.).
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