Symptoms

• There are a variety of different symptoms associated with an early HIV infection, but they are similar to symptoms of other diseases, so it is not easy to diagnose HIV based on symptoms alone. The hallmark symptoms of early HIV include swollen lymph nodes, sore throats, fatigue, fever, headaches and rashes. An example of a rash associated with HIV is seborrheic dermatitis, which has flaky white or yellowish scales that form on oily skin, such as the ear; the surrounding skin may or may not be red.
  
  

Asymptomatic

• It is possible to contract HIV and not display any of the symptoms. This type of HIV is known as asymptomatic HIV. Asymptomatic HIV is common when you first come in contact with the virus; some people may have no symptoms for up to 10 years after getting HIV. However, it is important to note that while you may not display HIV symptoms, you can still pass the virus on to others.
  
  

Diagnosis

• The only way to diagnosis HIV is through a blood test. A common tests is the HIV ELISA/Western blot, which detects the HIV antibodies in the blood. However, if you came in contact with HIV less than three months ago, your blood test may not come back HIV positive. You should get an HIV test every six months if you are sexually active or have multiple partners.
  
  

Complications

• Because HIV leads to the deterioration of the immune system, you become susceptible to other diseases. These include cancers, chronic wasting, HIV dementia and lipodystrophy. In addition, HIV can result in a variety of different infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, bacillary angiomatosis, candidiasis, cytomegalovirus infection and a salmonella infection in the bloodstream.
  
  

Warning

• There is no cure for HIV. While medication is available to help with the symptoms of HIV, it does not diminish the presence of the virus. Contracting HIV can be avoided by abstaining from sexual intercourse, using a condom and not sharing intravenous needles.