Signs and Symptoms

It is important to note that the only true way of knowing if you are infected with HIV is to get tested.  There are no signs or symptoms that can be true markers of the virus.  Also many people do not show signs or symptoms until up to 10 years after infection.  (CDC, 2007)
Some signs and symptoms that may appear in later stages of HIV infection may include:

  • rapid weight loss
  • dry cough
  • recurring fever or profuse night sweats
  • profound and unexplained fatigue
  • swollen lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck
  • diarrhea that lasts for more than a week
  • white spots or unusual blemishes on the tongue, in the mouth, or in the throat
  • pneumonia
  • red, brown, pink, or purplish blotches on or under the skin or inside the mouth, nose, or eyelids
  • memory loss, depression, and other neurological disorders

**NOTE** THE ONLY WAY TO TELL IF YOU ARE INFECTED WITH HIV IS TO GET TESTED
(CDC, 2007)