HIV and AIDS Forum - Acute HIV infection or cold ?

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The common cold is probably the most well known illness known to man. But did you know that it's a virus? Read to learn the basics about cold here....

Q: Acute HIV infection or cold ?

asked by: DoctorQuestion on April 17th, 2009

I recently performed unprotected oral sex on two men. In both cases I was exposed to precome but not ejaculate. Neither had any visible sores on their penises, etc. and both were adamant that they were HIV-. At the time I did have a cough and some inner ear congestion.

One week later I have a great deal more congestion with a runny nose although the cough is much better. I have a very slightly swollen lymph node in my kneck on the same side as where the majority of the congestion is located. The lymph node is not painful. In addition, when I woke up this morning I noticed that my shirt was wet from sweating.

Are my symptoms suggestive of acute HIV infection or is this most likely a simple case of a cold/sinus infection?

Thank you in advance.

Replies(3)

Dr. Goce Aleksovski , MD

replied on April 18th, 2009

(online)

HIV and AIDS Answer A6359

HIV infection is initially might be manifested with signs similar to other common infections: fever, fatigue, rash; in other people: headache, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. None of the symptoms would be specific for HIV infection. Therefore, it can not be told without adequate HIV tests if you are HIV infected.

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Comments (2)

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