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Diagnosing possible HIV infections

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April 29th, 2010
what are the most commen symptoms of primary hiv infection?
i mean that the most common symptoms that would appear in most cases in all primary hiv infected people. i mean that what would be the most common symptoms among 40 to 90% people who show the symptoms? can these symptoms appear 7.5 weeks after exposure? i only have painful lymph nodes in my left neck, my right armpit. i dont know exactly if they are swollen. they are not but i am feeling pain in these areas and sometimes in my groin. can lymph nodes due to hiv cause pain?


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replied April 30th, 2010
HIV and AIDS Answer A11634
Hi and welcome to the forum! I am glad that I can help you.

You want to know the most common symptoms of primary HIV infection.

HIV causes weakening of the human immune system by affecting the T-helper lymphocytes. These cells are the main connection between the two types of immunity, so once their number is decreased, other bacterial and viral infections including opportunistic infections may appear. Acute (primary) infection is the second stage of the HIV infection and may appear after two to four weeks after the transmission of the virus and may last an average of 28 days. It can include symptoms such as fever, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), pharyngitis (sore throat), rash, myalgia (muscle pain), malaise, and mouth and esophageal sores.

Given the data that you described, you may or may not be experiencing primary infection with HIV. There are other medical conditions that are connected with swollen lymph nodes such as mononucleosis, lymphadenitis, and other infective diseases. Have a complete blood count to rule out any infection. If monocytes are increased it indicated mononucleosis. If granulocytes are increased in number and percentage it may indicate bacterial infection. If lymphocytes are increased in number and percentage it may indicate another viral infection. You may also consider having diagnostic tests for HIV to rule out possible infection with this virus.

Please keep in mind that I provide medical information only. I am not able to diagnose medical conditions online. Please contact your doctor for further advice and information about diagnosis of possible HIV infection.


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