HIV Early Signs: Men, Watch Out For These Symptoms

According to CDC, “1 in 8 people living with HIV don’t realize they are infected. And in the United States, a higher number of men are living with the virus than women”. What does this tell us? That men need to pay more attention to their health and lifestyle. Here is our previous post on HIV symptoms in women.

As a man, you should be concerned about HIV symptoms if you are at-risk, that is, if you fall into one or more of the following categories:

• You recently had unprotected sex
• You are having sex with multiple partners; including gay, bisexual, transgender
• You use unsafe injections or abuse injectable drugs
• You had an unsterile cutting or piercing
• You’re in a city/town where HIV prevalence is high
• It’s been a while since your last test
• You feel the urge to get tested

Early HIV Symptoms in Men

Meanwhile, the first symptoms of HIV virus in men is quite similar to indication in women, but dissimilarities are often observed. The observed early symptoms are often unspecific and may closely resemble the flu. However, men do not seek medical care on time and this may the reason why this virus is said to affect more men. Taking note of these symptoms and seeking help promptly can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, at-risk males should lookout for the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Persistent diarrhea
• Body rash
• Persistent fever, chills, and night sweats
• Cough and shortness of breath
• Muscle and joint pain
• Prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes
• Sores in the mouth, nose, or on the genitals

If You Observe Any of These Symptoms

It doesn’t automatically mean that you have the virus!  Only a test from an HIV specialty care center can confirm the presence of the disease. So get tested ASAP. Also, it is important to get tested regularly, especially if you have been involved in any high-risk activity, even if you don’t observe any symptom. Knowledge of your HIV status empowers you to take charge of your health and prevents you from spreading the virus to others – including your loved ones.

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