Signs and Symptoms of HIV in Men and Women
Learn the early and chronic signs of HIV in men and women. Understand gender-specific symptoms, when to see a doctor, and how timely testing and treatment can help.
Written by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 18th Aug, 2025
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a more severe stage of the infection.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of HIV early can help in getting timely treatment and managing the condition effectively. While symptoms may vary between men and women, many are similar. Here’s what you need to know.
Early Symptoms of HIV (Acute HIV Infection)
Within 2 to 4 weeks after contracting HIV, some people experience flu-like symptoms. This stage is called acute HIV infection or primary HIV infection. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes (in the neck, armpits, or groin)
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headache
- rash (red, non-itchy spots)
- Night sweats
- Mouth ulcers or thrush (white patches in the mouth)
These symptoms may last for a few days to several weeks and are often mistaken for a common cold or flu. However, not everyone with HIV experiences these symptoms, which is why testing is crucial if you suspect exposure.
Chronic HIV Infection (Clinical Latency Stage)
After the initial phase, HIV enters a latent stage, where the virus is still active but reproduces at very low levels. Many people do not experience noticeable symptoms during this stage, which can last for years (even up to 10 years or more) if untreated.
However, without treatment, the virus continues to weaken the immune system, leading to persistent symptoms such as:
- Frequent infections (cold, flu, yeast infections)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic diarrhea
- Persistent fever or night sweats
- skin rashes or sores
- Shortness of breath or cough
- Memory problems or confusion (in later stages)
Symptoms Specific to Women
Women may experience some gender-specific symptoms, including:
- Frequent vaginal yeast infections (itching, discharge, discomfort)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – an infection of the reproductive organs
- Irregular periods or severe PMS
- Higher risk of cervical cancer (due to weakened immunity)
- Pain during sex (due to vaginal dryness or infections.
Symptoms Specific to Men
Men may notice:
- Genital sores or ulcers
- Low testosterone levels (leading to fatigue, low sex drive, or erectile dysfunction)
- Swollen testicles
- Prostate inflammation (painful urination or pelvic discomfort)
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any of these symptoms and have had unprotected sex, shared needles, or been exposed to HIV-infected blood, it’s important to get tested.
Consult an Specialist for the best advice
Early diagnosis and treatment can help:
- Prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS
- Improve quality of life
- Reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to others
How to Manage HIV?
While there is no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can control the virus and help people live long, healthy lives. Here are some ways to manage HIV:
1. Take Medications as Prescribed
- ART helps lower the viral load (amount of HIV in the blood).
- Skipping doses can make the virus resistant to treatment.
2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
- Eat a balanced diet (fruits, vegetables, lean proteins).
- Exercise regularly to boost immunity.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs, as they weaken the immune system.
3. Practice Safe Sex
- Use condoms to prevent transmission.
- tested regularly if sexually active.
4. Regular Medical Check-ups
Monitor CD4 count (immune cells) and viral load.
Get vaccinated for flu, pneumonia, and other infections.
How to Get Tested?
If you suspect you may have been exposed to HIV, getting tested is the only way to know for sure.
- Apollo 24|7 offers confidential HIV testing with quick and accurate results.
- You can book a lab test or consult a doctor online for guidance.
Get Your Health Assessed
Early detection saves lives!
Final Thoughts
HIV is a manageable condition with the right treatment and care. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking medical help can make a big difference in your health. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor or get tested.
Remember: HIV does not define you; with proper care, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
Book an HIV test or consultation today on Apollo 24|7! Stay informed, stay safe.
Consult an Specialist for the best advice
Consult an Specialist for the best advice
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Swagata Sircar
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Divyashree K
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Consult an Specialist for the best advice
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Swagata Sircar
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Divyashree K
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
