There is no “main symptom of HIV”. HIV or the Human Immunodeficiency Virus is the pathogen (virus) that, if left untreated, causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). During the first few days after infection, while the virus is just beginning to replicate in the body, the person will have no symptoms and also will test negative by both rapid test and the more sensitive ‘viral load’ test. This is called the ‘eclipse period’. After about 7–10 days, the viral load test will become positive. However, the standard screening test (rapid antibody test or the ELISA test) will only become positive a few days after that, so about 14 days after exposure. At this time, a percentage individuals may experience ‘flu-like symptoms’ similar to a bad cold. This includes fever, swollen glands, body aches and fatigue. This is the body reacting to the replicating virus. Just like any other viral infection, the symptoms will disappear after a few days. After this “acute viral syndrome”, the vast majority of individuals will remain completely symptoms free for several years. If they remain untreated until the immune system becomes damaged by the virus, eventually they will develop symptoms of AIDS. Early symptoms vary by individual and may include fatigue and weight loss, but the first symptoms also could be those of an opportunistic infection. Different opportunistic infections appear based on how damaged the immune system is (how low the CD4 count is) and may include: pneumonia, diarrhea, oral thrush, meningitis, esophageal thrush, lymphoma, Kaposi Sarcoma. It is recommended that all persons with known risk factors for HIV, get tested and for those who test positive, begin treatment immediately.
Source: quora.com
No comments:
Post a Comment