Early Signs Of HIV

By Sowmiya Prasad

HIV, also known as Human Immuno Deficiency Virus is a highly contagious disease, that could affect the immune system. When it comes to the deadly infection, it is a must to know the common symptoms, so that you can get it treated at the earliest. The infection brings out some of the early signs and with this diagnosing becomes easy. Getting tested for HIV could be something embarrassing and tough, however, there are several ways today to get it done.

Government health care centre's today have adequate facilities to detect and treat HIV and they also maintain secrecy in the records of the patients. Early treatment is necessary to avoid the progression of the infection into the severity of AIDS. The signs of HIV may vary depending on the phase of the disease and its severity. It is important to get treated, as the person who is infected also carries the risk of infecting others through the exchange of body fluids.

Early Signs Of HIV

Signs of HIV may remain dormant for a number of years and come out only later. If you have a doubt that you carry HIV, it is advisable to talk to your health care specialist and get it tested. World Aids Day is celebrated at the international level to promote awareness among people about HIV, treatment and causes. Here are a few signs of HIV that you have to take note of.

If you lose those extra Kgs
If you happened to notice sudden changes in your weight and if you find that you are losing weight rapidly than normal, then take caution. It could be one of the signs of HIV. Weight loss can also be considered as a sign of advanced illness. This literally means that your immune system is at the worse.

If you cough continuously
Dry cough is also one of the signs of HIV. There are chances that you may mistake it for a dust allergy. However, with the progressing time you will notice the symptoms getting worse.

You nail can tell
HIV infection may cause changes to your nails. Signs of HIV can be weird, but take a caution. There can be splitting of nails or discoloration on your nails. Look if you have any, to diagnose earlier.

If fatigue hits you
If you begin to feel lethargic and tired for most of the time of the day, and then beware it could be one of the signs of HIV. Fatigue could be both your early sign and later sign of your infection.

Oh my gosh!
If you are screaming like this out of muscle and joint pain, then get tested yourself for HIV. It could be some of the signs of HIV. World AIDS Day every year brings out all these facts and figures of people affected with HIV.

Head aches
If headaches have become a part and parcel of your life, then take a note it could be the signs of HIV. It is one of the early signs and often referred to as ARS.

Take a look at your skin
Skin rashes are common and may occur in the early or later stages of the diseases. There could be boils or itchy areas on your skin. So take a close look at your skin.

World AIDS Day, celebrated on December 1st every year and the theme of World AIDS Day, 2013 is "Getting to Zero: Zero new HIV infections". Every year, campaigns, are conducted to create awareness among people. There are also materials and technical data being released to make the campaign against HIV infections effective. Let us stay aware of HIV infections, and prevent them rather than treating them.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Story first published: Saturday, November 30, 2013, 21:03 [IST]
Read more about: disease