HIV Symptoms in Men: Specific Warning Signs to Watch Out For

Do you know about the HIV symptoms in men? While both men and women can contract it, HIV symptoms in males are different from that of women. This article will explore the specific symptoms of HIV/AIDS in men, including early warning signs to look out for. 

HIV: What is it and how does it spread? 

Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a type of virus that attacks and weakens the immune system. When left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition in which the immune system is severely damaged and becomes unable to fight off infections and diseases. This can lead to the development of HIV symptoms in men and women.  

HIV is primarily spread through contact with certain body fluids from an infected person, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common ways HIV is transmitted are through unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral), sharing needles or syringes with someone infected, and from mother to child when the mother is pregnant, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is necessary to look out for early signs of HIV in men or HIV symptoms in men. 

It is important to note that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contacts such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food or drinks. It also does not spread through insect bites or by using public restrooms or swimming pools.  

Additional Read: HIV Symptoms in Women 

What is the origin of HIV? 

The exact origin of HIV is still not confirmed, but it is believed to have originated in non-human primates in Africa. Scientists believe that the virus was transmitted to humans when humans came into contact with the infected blood or bodily fluids of these primates, possibly through hunting or consumption of their meat. 

The earliest known case of HIV found in humans dates back to 1959 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire), but it is likely that the virus existed in humans for decades before that, and people experienced several HIV symptoms in men. 

HIV was first identified and recognized as a new disease in the early 1980s when clusters of cases were identified among men who have sex with men in the United States. Since then, the virus has spread globally and has become a major public health concern. 

Additional Read: Types of Blood Test 

Symptoms of AIDS in Men 

The early symptoms of HIV in men can be similar to that of flu, including fever, headache, and fatigue. These symptoms usually occur within 2-4 weeks of exposure to the virus and may last for several weeks. Other common HIV symptoms in men include: 

1. Genital sores: One of the major HIV symptoms in men is that they may experience sores or ulcers on the genitals or in the mouth, which can be painful and make it difficult to urinate 
2. Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes in the groin, armpit, or neck may become swollen or tender. Amongst HIV symptoms in men, this one is common 
3. Skin rashes: Men with HIV may develop a rash on the skin, often on the chest, back, and stomach 
4. Night sweats: Men with HIV may experience night sweats, which can be severe and cause discomfort 
5. Thrush: A yeast infection in the mouth or throat that can cause white, patchy sores and difficulty swallowing 
6. Persistent fever: HIV symptoms in men also include a fever that lasts for several weeks 

Additional Read: World AIDS Day 

Specific HIV Symptoms in Men 

In addition to the general HIV symptoms in men mentioned above, they may experience other specific symptoms, including: 

1. Testicular pain: HIV can cause inflammation of the testicles, which can lead to pain, swelling, and lumps in the testicles 
2. Erectile dysfunction: HIV can affect blood flow to the penis, which can cause difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection 
3. Anal cancer: Men with HIV are at higher risk of developing anal cancer, which can cause symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and discharge 
4. Peripheral neuropathy: HIV can damage the nerves in the hands and feet, which can cause tingling, numbness, and pain 
5. Kidney disease: HIV can cause damage to the kidneys, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and changes in urine output 

Additional Read: HIV Symptoms in Child 

HIV Early Symptoms in Men: Here's What you Must Look Out For 

Early detection of HIV is crucial for effective treatment and management of the virus. Men who are at risk of HIV should be aware of these HIV symptoms in men and early warning signs, including: 

• Flu-like symptoms: Fever, headache, and fatigue that occur within 2-4 weeks of exposure to the HIV virus 
• Genital sores: Painful sores or ulcers on the genitals or in the mouth 
• Swollen lymph nodes: Tender, swollen lymph nodes in the groin, armpit, or neck 
• Skin rashes: A rash on the skin, often on the chest, back, and stomach 
• Night sweats: Severe sweating at night that can cause discomfort 
• Thrush: White, patchy sores in the mouth or throat that can make it difficult to swallow 

If you experience any of these HIV symptoms in men, it is important to get tested for HIV. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS and improve long-term health outcomes. 

Getting Tested for HIV 

If you suspect you may have contracted HIV, it is vital to get tested. HIV testing is simple, confidential, and often free. Testing can be done at your doctor's office, a community health centre, or a local clinic. You can also purchase an at-home HIV test kit at your local pharmacy or online. 

There are several types of HIV tests, including: 

Antibody tests

These tests look for antibodies in response to the virus in your blood or saliva. It may take approximately three months for your body to produce sufficient antibodies for the test to detect 

Antigen tests

These tests look for antigens, or proteins, which are part of the virus. Antigen tests can detect HIV earlier than antibody tests 

Combination tests

These tests look for both antibodies and antigens in the blood, which can help to detect HIV symptoms in men 

Treatment and Management of HIV 

While there is no cure for HIV as of now, several effective treatment options are available. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a combination of drugs that can help control and prevent the virus from replicating in the body. ART can also help strengthen the immune system and improve overall health. 

It is important to start ART as soon as possible after an HIV diagnosis. Early treatment can help prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS and can improve long-term health outcomes. 

In addition to medication, several lifestyle changes can help manage HIV, including: 

• Eating a healthy diet: A balanced diet will help to strengthen the immune system, while improving overall health
• Getting regular exercise: Exercise can help improve energy levels and reduce stress 
• Reducing stress: Stress can weaken the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight infections and diseases 
• Avoiding risky behaviors: This includes not sharing needles, using condoms during sexual activity, and avoiding high-risk sexual behaviors 

If you are looking for convenient and confidential HIV testing and treatment options, Bajaj Finserv Health can help. You can get online doctor consultations and general physician appointments for various health concerns, including HIV and HIV symptoms in men. In addition, if you want to explore more health blogs or get advice on several health issues that you are facing, you can explore our website for a better future today!