Early Symptoms of HIV and Rash
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), usually progresses for five to ten years before AIDS occurs. Most people develop some symptoms soon after infection, which may include a skin rash.
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Early Symptoms
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Early symptoms of HIV are similar to those of the flu. They typically include a fever, headache, lack of appetite, swollen lymph glands, muscle aches and fatigue. Some people do not experience any early symptoms.
Time Frame
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The symptoms usually appear within two to eight weeks after HIV infection, as the body's immune system attempts to fight the virus. Symptoms can last up to two weeks.
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Identification
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Not everyone develops a rash after HIV infection, and rash characteristics vary among individuals. It can be raised or flat, and may or may not itch. The rash usually occurs on the front or back of the trunk, and may spread to the neck.
Significance
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Because all the early symptoms of HIV infection are similar to the flu or other diseases, many people with HIV are not diagnosed until the disease has progressed much further.
Disease Progression
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The next stage of HIV symptoms may not occur for many years. The individual may experience chronic skin rashes, frequent herpes outbreaks causing cold sores or genital sores, or shingles.
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