How To Detect And Defend Against Early Signs Of HIV

Night Sweats

Night sweats are another common symptom during the early stages of HIV infection, with approximately half of all patients being affected. Night sweats result in sweating that soaks bedding and clothing while sleeping. They are not unlike the hot flashes menopausal women are commonly known to suffer. Night sweats are not related to exercise or the temperature of the room.

When it comes to HIV, night sweats are the result of an HIV-related illness rather than the infection itself. A few examples of infections that could cause night sweats due to HIV include Mycobacterium avium complex, histoplasmosis, and tuberculosis. The first two are a bacterial infection and a fungal infection, respectively.

Diarrhea

Having diarrhea is one of the most common complications of HIV. The disease itself can trigger it, but the medications that patients take to treat their condition can also. Poor nutrition can worsen both of these causes. However, HIV patients need to continue taking medication unless their doctor tells them something different for their specific case. Diarrhea during HIV can be severe, and it may also be present in combination with nausea or abdominal pain. Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are a common issue for individuals with HIV. Intestinal infections and bacterial overgrowth can cause HIV-related GI issues, resulting in diarrhea.