Signs and Symptoms of HIV/AIDS in Men

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one million Americans have HIV, and the prevalence of infection is on the rise among men. HIV most commonly affects gay and bisexual men. However, the virus also occurs in heterosexual males, with a higher prevalence of African-American men. The symptoms of HIV can vary greatly from person to person. No two men with HIV will experience the exact same symptoms. However, an HIV infection in men will generally follow this pattern: Acute illness Asymptomatic period Advanced infection Acute illness It’s the primary stage of the infection and lasts until the body has created antibodies against the HIV virus. The most common symptoms include: body rash fever sore throat severe headaches Less common symptoms may include: fatigue swollen lymph nodes ulcers in the mouth or on the genitals muscle aches and joint pain nausea and vomiting night sweats Symptoms typically last one to two weeks. Asymptomatic period During this time, the virus replicates within your body and begins to weaken your immune system. You won’t feel or look sick, but the virus is still active, and you can easily transmit it to others. Advanced infection It may take up to 10 years or longer, but HIV may eventually break down your immune system. Once this happens, HIV will progress to AIDS, which is the last stage of infection. At this point, your immune system is severely damaged, making you more susceptible to opportunistic infections. You might also experience the following AIDS symptoms: Nausea Vomiting Persistent diarrhea Chronic fatigue Rapid weight loss Cough and shortness of breath Recurring fever, chills, and night sweats Sores in the mouth or on the genitals Red, brown, or purplish lesions under the skin or inside the mouth or nose Prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpits, groin, or neck Memory loss, confusion, or neurological disorders