what are the first signs of hiv

The early signs of HIV can vary from person to person, but they may include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, headache, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, rash, ulcers in the mouth or genitals, and diarrhea. These symptoms can resemble those of common illnesses such as flu, so it is important to get tested if HIV exposure is a concern. Some people infected by HIV develop a flu-like illness within 2 to 4 weeks after getting the virus, known as primary (acute) HIV infection, which may last for a few weeks. During this stage, the amount of virus in the bloodstream is quite high. If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it is important to see a healthcare professional about testing options.