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Acute HIV Treatment

Acute HIV infection is the first phase of HIV disease. However, the symptoms are commonly not recognized as acute HIV, and it is therefore important to confirm your status through HIV testing before proper treatment begins.

  1. Acute HIV Symptoms

    • Acute HIV infection may cause a flu-like illness (fever, swollen lymph nodes, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, aches and pains) in some newly infected people.

    Misdiagnosis

    • Because acute HIV symptoms are similar to those of other, more common viral infections, HIV is not usually diagnosed during acute infection unless HIV testing is done.

    Testing

    • It is important to be tested within the 1- to 6-month window after possible HIV infection; HIV tests rely on antibodies, a detectable level of which usually develops within a month of infection, but may take up to 6 months. Proper treatment for HIV can only be undertaken after HIV is diagnosed.

    Treatment

    • Antiretroviral drugs that target the virus at several different stages of its cycle are used in the treatment of HIV. According to AIDS.org, beginning antiretroviral therapy during acute infection might protect the immune system.

    Considerations

    • AIDS.org reports that treatment guidelines stipulate antiretroviral drugs should only be used once there is evidence of immune system damage. You should talk with your doctor about an appropriate therapy based on your viral load and CD4+ cell count.

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